What should I do if my hand is pricked by a thorn?
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Treatment methods after a hand puncture generally include removing shallow splinters with tweezers, using adhesive tape to extract fine thorns, using a sterilized needle to lift out deeply embedded splinters, applying iodine tincture for disinfection, and applying antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. If one end of the splinter is clearly protruding from the skin surface, first disinfect the tweezers with alcohol, then gently grasp the exposed portion of the splinter with the tweezers and slowly pull it out in the direction it entered.
General treatment methods for a hand punctured by a splinter usually include removing shallow splinters with tweezers, using adhesive tape to extract fine splinters, using a sterilized needle to lift deeply embedded splinters, applying iodine tincture for disinfection, and applying antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Specific details are as follows:
1. Remove shallow splinters with tweezers: If one end of the splinter is clearly protruding from the skin surface, first disinfect the tweezers with alcohol. Then gently grasp the exposed portion of the splinter and slowly pull it out in the same direction it entered. Avoid pulling forcefully, which may cause the splinter to break inside the skin. Wash your hands after the procedure.
2. Use adhesive tape to remove fine splinters: For very fine or superficially embedded splinters (such as cactus spines or fiberglass fragments), cut a piece of clear tape and place it over the affected area. Press gently and then quickly peel off the tape, using its stickiness to pull out the tiny splinter. Repeat this process several times until the splinter is removed.
3. Use a sterilized needle to lift deep splinters: If the splinter is deeply embedded but one end is slightly visible, first disinfect both the needle and the puncture site on the skin with iodine tincture. Gently use the needle to lift the top layer of skin to expose the end of the splinter, then grasp and remove it with tweezers. Perform all actions gently to avoid damaging surrounding skin.
4. Apply iodine tincture for disinfection: Regardless of whether the splinter has been removed, always use a cotton swab dipped in iodine tincture to gently clean the puncture site and surrounding skin to prevent bacterial infection and complications such as redness, swelling, and pain.
5. Apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection: If the skin is slightly broken after removing the splinter or if there is concern about infection, apply an appropriate amount of antibiotic ointment (such as erythromycin ointment) after disinfection. This helps inhibit bacterial growth and promotes wound healing. Apply once or twice daily.
If the splinter cannot be removed at home, if redness, swelling, and pain worsen after removal, or if signs of infection such as pus or fever occur, seek medical attention promptly.
