Puncture Wound

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

A puncture wound is a hole in the skin made by a sharp, pointed object.

AFTER YOU LEAVE:

Medicines:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine may decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine can be bought with or without a doctor's order. This medicine can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your primary healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow the directions on it before using this medicine.
  
  
• Antibiotics: This medicine is given to fight or prevent an infection caused by bacteria. Always take your antibiotics exactly as ordered by your primary healthcare provider. Do not stop taking your medicine unless directed by your primary healthcare provider. Never save antibiotics or take leftover antibiotics that were given to you for another illness.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed. Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Follow up with your primary healthcare provider in 1 to 2 days:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Wound care:

Keep your wound clean and dry. When you are allowed to bathe, carefully wash your wound with soap and water. Put on clean, new bandages. Change your bandages every time they get wet or dirty. Ask for more information about wound care.

Manage your symptoms:

• Rest: Rest your injured area as much as possible. If the puncture wound is in your leg or foot, use crutches for 2 to 3 days as directed. This will help keep the weight off your injured leg or foot as it heals.
  
  
• Elevate: Raise the injured area above your heart as often as you can to reduce swelling. Use pillows to raise the area comfortably.

Contact your primary healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have more swelling, redness, or pain.
  
  
• You have problems moving the injured part or have tender lumps in your groin or armpits.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have severe pain.
  
  
• You have new drainage or a bad odor coming from the wound.
  
  
• You have numbness or tingling in the area of your wound.
  
  
• Your wound does not stop bleeding, even after you apply pressure.
  
  
• You have trouble swallowing and your jaw and neck are stiff.
  
  
• You have trouble talking, walking, or breathing.

Learn more about Puncture Wound (Discharge Care)