PUNCTURE WOUND

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

Injury Definition

Skin is punctured by a narrow sharp object (e.g., a nail, pencil, toothpick).

General Information

Needlesticks: Any needlestick from a used or discarded needle should be reported immediately to the doctor. In some cases, medicines should be started to prevent transmission of the HIV (AIDS) virus.
Foot Punctures through Athletic Shoes: Puncture wounds into the bottom of the foot have a risk of infection of approximately 4%. This increases to 25% in patients with puncture wounds through athletic (tennis) shoes into the bottom of the foot near the toes. Pain persisting greater than 4-5 days after the injury is suggestive of infection.
Pencil Lead Punctures: Pencil lead is actually graphite (harmless), not poisonous lead. Even colored leads are nontoxic. They will cause a tattoo, however, and should be scrubbed out.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

Animal caused it, see ANIMAL BITE
It looks infected, see WOUND INFECTION
Skin is cut or scraped (not punctured), see SKIN INJURY

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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