From the Research
It is not acceptable to leave a splinter in the finger of a 44-year-old female, as it can lead to infection and other complications, and removal is generally recommended. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, published in 2023, highlights the importance of removing splinters, even if they are not easily visible, using techniques such as the POCUS waterbath-technique. This study demonstrates that removal of splinters, even those that are difficult to locate, is crucial to prevent potential complications.
When removing a splinter, it is essential to follow proper techniques to minimize the risk of infection and other complications. This includes:
- Washing hands thoroughly before attempting removal
- Using clean tweezers or a needle sterilized with alcohol
- Gently exposing the splinter by removing any skin covering it
- Grasping the exposed end of the splinter with tweezers and pulling it out in the same direction it entered
- Cleaning the area with soap and water and applying an antibiotic ointment like Neosporin after removal
If the splinter is deeply embedded, very large, under a nail, or if the area becomes increasingly red, swollen, painful, or shows signs of infection (pus, warmth, red streaks), it is recommended to seek medical attention. Leaving a splinter in place can lead to infection as the foreign object may harbor bacteria, and wood splinters are particularly concerning as they can break down and cause inflammatory reactions, as noted in 2.
In general, the approach to splinter removal should prioritize minimizing the risk of infection and other complications, and seeking medical attention if necessary, as supported by the studies 2, 1.