Dynamo Training Solutions Simple Guide to: Splinters

What are splinters?

Splinters are foreign objects that embed themselves into the skin, either fully or partially. Splinter injuries are often surprisingly painful and are a common occurrence that can be caused by many things such as a shard of glass splinter of wood splinter of plastic sliver of metal.

Recognition

· Possible pain at the site of the injury

· Visibility of the splinter

· Possible swelling at the site of the injury may be an associated bleed.

What first aid action should be taken for a partially embedded splinter?

· Put on your disposable gloves.

· Clean the area surrounding the splinter.

· Ensure that your tweezers are sterile.

· Draw the splinter out in the direction of the entry route.

· Clean the surrounding area.

· Monitor for signs of infection.

What first aid action should be taken for a fully embedded splinter?

· Put on your disposable gloves.

· Clean the area surrounding the splinter.

· With fully embedded splinters incorporate a ‘drawing technique’, which is:

• cover the splinter with the sticky part of the plaster and leave it overnight

• remove the plaster and see if the splinter has been drawn out either fully or partially.

Important note

For large splinters and fully embedded splinters that cannot be drawn out please seek qualified medical attention. If the splinter is under a fingernail or toenail, then seek medical attention as the extraction may become complicated.

Dynamo Training Solutions Simple Guide to: Splinters

Dynamo Training Solutions provide comprehensive training on all first aid-related topics. We deliver first-aid training courses throughout London, Kent, and the Southeast. Dynamo Training Solutions Simple Guide to: Splinters is one of a series of Dynamo Training Solutions Simple Guide to first aid series.