How long does it take for signs of wound infection to appear?
Infection sets in about 1-2 days after injury. If the spike was dirty, this increases the possibilty of getting an infection. All injuries of the hand (includes the space between the thumb and finger) need to be treated. Infections notoriously can go deep into the hand and function can be lost. I speak through experience. I got stuck in my hand by a pin, I leaned back on the rug and it had been hidden. I ignored it. It got infected and it took weeks and weeks to treat. Signs of infection include: increased redness, swelling, formation of pus. A clear,liquidy discharge is normal. Puncture wounds are VERY prone to infection. He should receive a tetnus shot and also get it inspected by a doctor. Meanwhile, have him soak the hand in warm, soapy water and then apply hot compressed to the area. I wouldn’t ignore this.
