Urgent Care for Splinters and Foreign Bodies
Splinters are a very common injury. Many are minor and can be safely and easily cared for at home. A medical provider should treat large or deeply embedded splinters or foreign bodies to prevent complications like infection. Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care offers rapid, effective care for splinters and other foreign objects. Our short wait times make it convenient to get top-tier care when you need it.
Should I Go to Urgent Care for a Splinter?
Removing a large or deeply embedded splinter on your own may be tempting, but you shouldn’t attempt this. If not removed properly, a splinter could cause problems, including infection or further tissue injury. If you try this yourself, you could worsen the situation by leaving part of the splinter embedded or pushing the object deep into the tissue.
Various objects can become stuck in your skin, including wooden slivers, plant thorns, and nails. In a coastal area, you may step on broken glass or other sharp objects while spending time on the beach. Many of these objects can be contaminated with harmful organisms that could cause a dangerous infection. Some, like insect stingers, can contain toxins that could result in a medical emergency. A trained medical provider can remove such objects carefully, clean the wound thoroughly, and prescribe any treatment you may need. This could include a tetanus shot or an antibiotic.
Symptoms of Infection
Signs that a splinter has caused an infection may include:
- Pain.
- Swelling.
- Redness.
- Drainage of pus.
- Streaks of red around the wound site.
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Fatigue or lethargy.
Foreign Body Treatment at Urgent Care
It is essential to seek medical care if you notice these symptoms. At Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care, we offer comprehensive care for splinters and foreign bodies, as well as for cuts and other wounds. If you or a family member has a splinter, visit us at any of our locations. One of our caring providers will evaluate your injury, safely remove any foreign material, carefully clean your wound, and choose the best treatment to ensure recovery.
You don’t need an appointment at our walk-in clinics. Thibodaux Regional Urgent Care offers prompt, professional care seven days a week. We welcome patients of all ages and provide a wide range of medical services. For more information, call 985.803.8383 for the Thibodaux clinic, 985.709.0136 for the Houma clinic, or 985.493.4944 for the Gray clinic.
