Schedule An Appointment

Symptom Checker

Slivers and Splinters

A splinter is a small piece of material that becomes lodged under the skin. Wood, glass, metal and plant material are common examples.

Splinters usually occur after contact with rough wood, broken objects, outdoor surfaces or other materials that can pierce the skin.

Call a nurse All symptoms

AAP Guide to Slivers and Splinters

The AAP guide below explains removal, wound care and when a splinter needs professional help.

AAP Symptom CheckerSlivers and splinters

If the Symptom Checker does not appear here

It is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ own tool and it loads from their site, so a lost connection or a content blocker leaves this space empty. Open it on HealthyChildren.org with the button below, or call your office and a nurse will answer.

Open on HealthyChildren.org

Symptom CheckerSlivers and splinters New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The splinter is deep, large or difficult to remove.
  • Glass or another breakable material may remain in the skin.
  • The splinter is under a nail or near the eye or another sensitive area.
  • Redness, swelling, pain or pus develops.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has a major penetrating injury or another 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