Do I need a tetanus shot for a small nail puncture?
A minor nail puncture may not require a visit to your doctor. But, if the nail or wound was dirty or the puncture is deep, you should see your doctor or visit urgent care. They’ll likely give you a tetanus booster shot if you haven’t had one in the past 5 years.
How soon do you need tetanus shot after stepping on nail?
If the injured person hasn’t had a tetanus shot in the past five years and the wound is deep or dirty, your doctor may recommend a booster. The injured person should have the booster shot within 48 hours of the injury.
What type of shot should you receive if you have a puncture wound?
Some Basics… Punctures are a type of skin wound made by a narrow sharp object. Puncture wounds can become infected, so need proper care. A tetanus shot is often needed after a puncture wound.
When should you go to the doctor after stepping on a nail?
First aid after stepping on a nail Share on Pinterest People should visit a doctor within 24 hours of stepping on a nail in order to minimize the risk of tetanus or other infection.
How do you know if a puncture wound is infected?
Signs of infection include:
- redness that spreads around the cut or forms red streaks heading away from the cut.
- swelling around the cut.
- pain or tenderness around the cut that doesn’t subside within a day or so.
- pus oozing from the cut.
- fever.
- swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.
How do you know if you need a tetanus shot?
You will need a tetanus shot if: Your wound was caused by something that was clean and your last tetanus shot was longer than 10 years ago. Your wound was caused by something that was dirty and your last tetanus shot was longer than 5 years ago.
How soon after injury should you get a tetanus shot?
Appropriate tetanus prophylaxis should be administered as soon as possible following a wound but should be given even to patients who present late for medical attention.