Drawing a foreign object out of your skin is a delicate and potentially dangerous task. It takes more than just a steady hand and a good pair of tweezers to safely and effectively remove a splinter, insect stinger, or any other foreign object. Here’s how to get that thing out without making your skin trying to run away from you.
Clean the Area Thoroughly
If it’s a rod-shaped object, like a splinter, the first step is to thoroughly disinfect the area with an antiseptic solution. This will help to keep bacteria away and also make it easier to remove the object. The solution also softens the skin, making it more pliable. If the foreign body isn’t a rod-shape, then this may not be necessary.
Gently dry the area and use a magnifying glass to get a better look at the object and a closer look at its position.
Tilt the Area To Control Bleeding
This next step may seem counterintuitive, but it’s important to keep the area tilted toward the affected site. This helps to minimize bleeding and the amount of movement the object has access to.
If the object is at an angle, you’ll need to use tweezers to adjust the angle so it can be easily removed. This process may require multiple tries if the object is firmly held in place or if it’s been embedded deeper into the skin.
Apply Pressure to the Area
Pressure is the key to success here. Use gentle pressure over the entire area that the object is lodged in. This will help to reduce the pressure which will, in turn, make it easier to get the object out. This pressure is especially important if the object is in a difficult-to-reach area, like the back of your finger.
Using your fingers, press against the skin, making sure to keep the pressure even over the entire area instead of just applying pressure directly onto the object.
Tweezers Gingerly Pluck Out the Object
Finally, you can gently grab the object with tweezers. Before plucking out the object, tilt the area of skin again and apply pressure over the ends with two fingers. This will help to reduce the risk of ripping the skin and also minimize any bleeding.
Take your time when using the tweezers. Be sure to grab the object securely and pull in a slow, consistent motion. Once the object is removed, clean the area with antiseptic and apply a bandage for protection.
Things to Avoid
First, don’t panic. Easy-does-it is the way to go here. Second, don’t try to remove the object with your fingernails. They may push the object deeper and cause injury. Third, don’t twist or turn the object while trying to remove it as this may cause more damage and make removal more difficult. Fourth, don’t use tweezers that are too sharp as this can lead to tissue damage.
And finally, don’t use any kind of pliers or other tools to try and remove the object. Just don’t.
When to See a Doctor
If after several attempts the foreign object doesn’t budge and appears firmly lodged, seek professional medical help. The sooner, the better, as the object can cause further damage. In extreme cases, a surgeon may need to be consulted.
Similarly, if the area of insertion is bleeding heavily or is excessively swollen or red, it’s a clear sign of infection and medical attention is needed. Additionally, if the object is leaking a substance other than blood (like insect venom), go to the nearest hospital or urgent care center.
Conclusion
When faced with the task of removing a foreign object from your body, it’s best to take it slowly and easily. Arm yourself with the right tools and a few basic tips and slowly extract from your skin as safely as possible. However, if the object isn’t budging, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.
