Healthwise
To print: Use your web browser's print feature. Close this window after printing.

Removing an Object From a Wound

Table of Contents


Overview

In the following situations, do not try to remove an object from the wound. Seek medical treatment immediately.

If the object has fallen out or has been removed, always check to see if the object that caused the wound is intact. If part of the object is still in the wound, it is usually best to have it removed by a doctor. If possible, take the broken object with you. Objects made of organic material, such as wood, may not be visible on X-ray and can be hard to remove, even by a doctor.

If the object is small and sticking out of the wound or visible in the wound, remove it with clean tweezers. Use care not to push the object farther into the wound. Bleeding may increase when the object is removed. If the object is hard to remove, leave it in place for removal by your doctor.

When an object is left in a wound, the chance of infection increases and the wound may not heal. Suspect that an object is still in the wound if:


Credits for Removing an Object From a Wound

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


Note: The "printer friendly" document will not contain all the information available in the online document. Some information (e.g. cross-references to other topics, definitions or medical illustrations) is only available in the online version.

© 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.