PUNCTURE WOUND

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR PUNCTURE WOUND

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Puncture on the head, neck, chest, back, or abdomen that may go deep

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You think you have a serious injury
Severe pain
Puncture on the head, neck, chest, abdomen that isn't deep
Puncture overlying a joint
Tip of the object is broken off and missing
Feels like something is still in the wound
Can't stand (bear weight or walk) on punctured foot
Needle stick from used or discarded injection needle
Sharp object was very dirty (e.g. a barnyard)
Setting was dirty and puncture occurred on bare foot
No previous tetanus shots
Dirt (debris) or pencil lead pigment that can be seen in the wound is not gone after 15 minutes of scrubbing
Wound looks infected (redness, red streaks, swollen, tenderness)
Fever occurs

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If:

You think you need to be seen
Diabetic and puncture wound of foot
Last tetanus booster was over 5 years ago

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns
Pain has not improved after 3 days

Self Care at Home If

Minor puncture wound and you don't think you need to be seen

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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