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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Puncture Wounds
DESCRIPTION
The skin has been completely punctured by an object that is
pointed and narrow, such as a nail. The wound is not wide
enough to need stitches.
Because puncture wounds usually seal over quickly, there is
a greater chance of wound infection with this type of skin
injury. Puncture wounds of the upper eyelid are especially
dangerous and can lead to a brain abscess. A deep infection
of the foot can begin with swelling of the top of the foot 1
to 2 weeks after the puncture. Another risk is tetanus if
your child is not immunized against tetanus.
HOME CARE
- Cleansing. Soak the wound in warm water and soap for
15 minutes. Scrub the wound with a washcloth to remove
any debris. If the wound rebleeds a little, that may
help remove germs.
- Trimming. Cut off any flaps of loose skin that cover
the wound and interfere with drainage or removing
debris. Use fine scissors after cleaning the scissors
with rubbing alcohol.
- Antibiotic ointment. Apply an antibiotic ointment and a
Band-Aid to reduce the risk of infection. Resoak the
area and reapply antibiotic ointment every 12 hours for
2 days.
- Pain relief. Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for any
pain.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:
- Dirt in the wound remains after you have soaked the
wound.
- The tip of the object could have broken off in the wound.
- The sharp object or place where the injury occurred was
very dirty (for example, a barnyard).
- The wound looks infected (redness, streaks, pus).
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- It has been at least 5 years since your child last had a
tetanus booster.
- Pain, redness, or swelling increases after 48 hours.
- You have other questions or concerns.
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