Removing splinters

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Removing splinters

Before using tweezers or a needle, try using cellophane tape to remove a splinter. Simply put the tape over the splinter, then pull the tape off. The tape will stick to the splinter and remove it painlessly. If tape doesn't work:

• Wash your hands well with soap and water.
• Grasp the end of the splinter with clean tweezers, and gently pull it out.
• If the splinter is embedded in the skin, clean a needle with alcohol and make a small hole in the skin over the end of the splinter.
• Lift the splinter with the tip of the needle until it can be grasped with the tweezers and pulled out.
• Do not wet or soak the splinter because it will be harder to remove in one piece.
• After the splinter has been removed, clean the wound and watch for any signs of infection.

You may need medical care if the splinter:

• Is very large.
• Is deeply embedded in the skin.
• Cannot be easily removed.
• Is in the eye.
• Broke off and part of it remains in the wound or if you are uncertain if the splinter has been removed.

Credits

Last updated:	June 10, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer