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Symptom Checker

Puncture Wounds

A puncture wound happens when a pointed object pushes through the skin. The opening may look small even when the object reaches deeper tissues.

Nails, needles, splinters, animal teeth and other sharp objects can cause punctures. Wounds through shoes, dirty objects and bites can introduce bacteria deeper under the skin.

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AAP Guide to Puncture Wounds

The AAP guide below explains wound care, infection risk and when a puncture needs an exam.

AAP Symptom CheckerPuncture wounds

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The wound is deep, dirty or came through a shoe.
  • Part of the object may still be in the skin.
  • The wound is on the hand, foot or another sensitive area.
  • Redness, swelling, pain, pus or fever develops.
  • You are unsure whether your child needs a tetanus booster.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • The object caused a major penetrating injury.
  • Bleeding is severe or your child loses feeling or movement beyond the wound.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms