MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Splinter removal

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Splinter removal

To remove a splinter first wash your hands with soap and water. Next, use tweezers to grab the splinter and carefully pull it out at the same angle it went in. After the splinter is out wash the area with soap and water. Pat it dry and apply antibiotic ointment. Seek medical attention if there is infection or inflammation, or the splinter is deeply embedded.

Update Date: 3/21/2006

Updated by: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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