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Foreign Object In The Skin: First Aid
By Matt Unangst, 03 Mar 23:21
Foreign objects that are embedded in your skin but still projecting out of it are of less concern than objects which have become fully embedded. Before removing a projecting object, wash your hands and the area around the object with soap and warm water to help prevent infection. Remove the object with tweezers if you are able to.
You should take the same step of cleaning your hands and the area around the embedded object if the object is completely embedded in your skin. To remove the object, use a needle. Sterilize the needle before use by wiping it with rubbing alcohol or cleaning it with soap and water. Puncture your skin just over the object and use the point of the needle to lift the tip of the embedded object out of your skin. You will then be able to remove the object completely with a pair of tweezers. Wash the area and pat in dry after removal. Apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Use a magnifying glass if you are having difficulty seeing the object to remove it.
If you are unable to remove the object easily or if it is embedded near your eye, get professional medical attention.
Tags: first aid, skin, foreign object
Comments (1)
Posted by David Mushal, 19 Oct 19:12
If you reverse the "Sweat Gland" and "Oil Gland" labels in the diagram, it will be correct. Otherwise, good article.