How to Remove a Splinter – Needle Method

Use this method if there’s a soft, thin layer of skin over the splinter. This is common if the skin starts to heal over the splinter before you get a chance to take it out. It’s not a good method if the splinter is deep or the layer of skin is thick (like on the heel your foot).

1. Sterilize the tip of the needle with rubbing alcohol.

2. Find the part where the splinter entered the skin.

3. Stick the needle in ever so slightly.

4. Apply upwards pressure, using the tip of the needle to open the skin right above the splinter. Go a little further, with an upward scraping motion.

5. Pull the skin apart gently and you should be able to see the splinter.

6. Use tweezers to pull it out, if the end is sticking out. Otherwise, you might have to use the needle to gently nudge it out. Get the tip of the needle underneath the splinter and nudge it up very gently. You don’t want it to break in your skin. If it does, use the baking soda method immediately to extract it.

- This step requires very steady hands and very good vision.

Tips:

- Don’t forget that most small splinters will work their way out of the skin on their own in a few days or a week. Sometimes it’s simpler and less harmful to just let your body heal itself. Watch for any sign of infection, though; while unlikely, it is possible.

- To numb the site before pulling out the splinter, put ice around the splinter (but not on it) or briefly put the spot in ice water (but not long enough to make the skin wrinkly). Again, make sure the spot is dry; it’ll be harder to use some of the methods if the skin or splinter is moist.

Best,

Genuine First Aid

http://www.genuinefirstaid.com
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