(801) 442-2000
36 S. State Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84111Map

InstaCare Online

Puncture Wound

Does this describe your symptom?

  
  • Skin is punctured by a narrow sharp object (e.g., a nail, pencil, toothpick).
General Information
  • Needlesticks: Any needlestick from a used or discarded needle should be reported immediately to the doctor. In some cases, medicines should be started to prevent transmission of the HIV (AIDS virus).
  • Foot punctures through athletic shoes: Puncture wounds into the bottom of the foot have a risk of infection of approximately 4%. This increases to 25% in patients with puncture wounds through athletic (tennis) shoes into the bottom of the foot near the toes. Pain persisting greater than 4-5 days after the injury is suggestive of infection.
  • Pencil lead punctures: Pencil lead is actually graphite (harmless), not poisonous lead. Even colored leads are nontoxic. They will cause a tattoo, however, and should be scrubbed out.

If not, see these other symptoms
  1. Should I Call?
  2. Care at Home

Adult Housecalls. Copyright © 2001-2008. David Thompson, M.D.
Reviewed/Modified: Jan. 2008 by Intermountain Healthcare, Inc.


Logo Intermountain Healthcare Home

© 2007 Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah. All Rights Reserved.