What are the post-procedure care instructions for a patient who had a splinter removed from their left foot with 0.25% lidocaine (local anesthetic) using a needle and scalpel?

From the Guidelines

After having a splinter removed from your left foot with 0.25% lidocaine, keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24 hours to prevent infection and promote healing. It is essential to follow proper post-procedure care instructions to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth recovery. According to the guidelines for day-case surgery 1, patients should be informed about the type of anesthetic given, the surgical procedure performed, and the postoperative instructions.

• Gently wash the area with mild soap and water once daily, then pat dry and apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment like Bacitracin or Neosporin.
• Cover with a clean adhesive bandage, changing it daily or when it becomes wet or dirty.
• The local anesthetic (0.25% lidocaine) will wear off in 1-2 hours, after which you may experience mild discomfort.
• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) 500-1000mg every 6 hours or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 400-600mg every 6 hours as needed for pain.
• Watch for signs of infection including increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, red streaking, or fever, which would require prompt medical attention.
• The wound should heal within 7-10 days.
• Avoid soaking the foot in water (baths, pools, hot tubs) for 48 hours to prevent infection, as the puncture wound creates a direct pathway for bacteria to enter deeper tissues.
• It is also recommended to have a helpline available for at least the first 24 hours after discharge and to arrange telephone follow-up the next day to address any immediate complications and provide support 1.

From the Research

Post-Procedure Care Instructions

• The patient should keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent infection 2
• The patient can use topical antibiotics to prevent infection, as studies have shown that topical antibiotics can reduce infection rates in uncomplicated soft-tissue wounds 2
• The patient should monitor the area for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or increased pain
• The patient can use pain management techniques, such as elevating the foot or using over-the-counter pain medication, to manage any discomfort or pain

Follow-Up Care

• The patient should follow up with their healthcare provider to ensure that the area is healing properly
• The patient should report any signs of infection or complications to their healthcare provider immediately
• The patient can expect to feel relief from pain and discomfort after the splinter removal, as the patient in the scenario reported feeling much better after the procedure

General Information

• Splinter removal is a common procedure, and larger and deeper splinters can be difficult and painful to remove at home 3
• The use of local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, can help to reduce pain during the procedure
• The patient's experience of feeling much better after the procedure is consistent with the expected outcome of splinter removal, as the removal of the foreign body can help to reduce pain and discomfort 3, 4