What treatments should be sought following a puncture wound?
The first step is to remove the offending agent if it is a superficial injury. If the injury is very deep, it is sometimes better to leave the object in place as removing the object may result in serious blood loss. Seek immediate medical attention. If the injury is not deep and the offending agent can be removed, the next step is to control bleeding. This can be done by applying pressure to the wound. Cleanse the wound with hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol if available. Cover the wound in antibiotic ointment and a band-aid. If the object was dirty or rusty as from a puncture wound from a nail, there may be a risk of a tetanus infection. If this is the case, seek medical attention right away as a serious infection can result if you are not current on your tetanus vaccination. The wound may need stitches if deep and may result in scar tissue if the wound is not properly treated in a timely fashion. Scar tissue can result in long-term irritation in the feet depending on the location
