Splinter Removal (Child)

Home care

• To relieve pain, give your child medicine as advised by your child's doctor. Don’t give your child aspirin. Aspirin use could cause a serious condition called Reye syndrome in a child. Don’t give your child any other medicine without first asking the doctor.

• If the area gets wet, gently pat it dry with a clean cloth. Replace the wet bandage with a dry one.

• Wash your hands with soap and clean, running water before and after caring for the wound. This helps prevent infection.

• Leave the original bandage in place for 24 hours. Replace it if it becomes wet or dirty. After 24 hours, change it once a day or as directed.

• Clean the wound daily. First remove the bandage. Then wash the area gently with soap and clean water, or as directed. Use a wet cotton swab to loosen and remove any blood or crust that forms. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if advised. Then put on a new bandage.

  • Caring for surgical tape. Keep the area dry. If it gets wet, blot it dry with a clean towel. Surgical tape usually falls off within 7 to 10 days. If it has not fallen off after 10 days, you can take it off yourself. Put mineral oil or petroleum jelly on a cotton ball and gently rub the tape until it is removed.

  • Caring for stitches. Clean the wound daily. First remove the bandage. Then wash the area gently with soap and water, or as directed. Use a wet cotton swab to loosen and remove any blood or crust that forms. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if advised. Then put on a new bandage.

• Check your child’s wound daily for signs of infection. These include redness, warmth, and fluid leaking from the wound. Be aware that an infection can occur even with correct care.

• Make sure your child does not scratch, rub, or pick at the area. A baby may need to wear scratch mittens.

• Don't soak the wound in water. Have your child shower or take sponge baths instead of tub baths. Don’t let your child go swimming.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your child’s doctor, or as advised.

When to get medical advice

Contact your child's doctor right away if your child has:

• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by the doctor.

• Signs of an infection, such as warmth, redness, swelling, or fluid leaking from the wound.

• Pain that gets worse. Babies may show pain as crying or fussing that can’t be soothed.