PUNCTURE WOUND

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR PUNCTURE WOUND

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance) If

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

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You think your child has a serious injury.
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 still in the wound.
Won't stand (bear weight or walk) on punctured foot.
Needle stick from used or discarded injection needle.
Sharp object or setting was very dirty (e.g., a barnyard).
No previous tetanus shots.
Dirt (debris) or pencil lead pigment is not gone after 15 minutes of scrubbing.
Severe pain.
Wound looks infected (redness, red streaks, swollen, tenderness).
Fever occurs.

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

You think your child needs to be seen.
Last tetanus booster was over 5 years ago.

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns.

Parent Care at Home If

Minor puncture wound and you don't think your child needs 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 7/2002

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