What is puncture wounds?

A puncture wound can happen anywhere on your child's body. These wounds tend to be narrower and deeper than cuts.

A puncture wound is usually left open instead of being closed. This is because a puncture wound can be easily infected, and closing it can make infection even more likely.

Your child will probably have a bandage over the wound.

The doctor has checked your child carefully, but problems can develop later. If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

Puncture wounds are less likely than cuts to be stitched, stapled, or have a skin adhesive applied because:

• Puncture wounds tend to be smaller than cuts and usually do not heal better or scar less when stitched.
• Puncture wounds tend to be deeper, narrower, and harder to clean than cuts. Sealing bacteria into a wound when it is stitched increases the risk of infection.
• If a puncture wound becomes infected, the wound usually drains better and heals faster when it is not stitched.

Puncture wounds may be stitched if the cosmetic appearance of the resulting scar will be greatly improved or if stitching is needed to restore function to an injured deep structure, such as a tendon or ligament.

• Keep the wound dry for the first 24 to 48 hours. After this, your child can shower if your doctor okays it. Pat the wound dry.
• Don't let your child soak the wound, such as in a bathtub or kiddie pool. Your doctor will tell you when it's safe to get the wound wet.
• If your doctor told you how to care for your child's wound, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
  • After the first 24 to 48 hours, wash the wound with clean water 2 times a day. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing.
  • You may cover the wound with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a nonstick bandage.
  • Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.
• Prop up the sore area on a pillow anytime your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your child's heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• Help your child avoid any activity that could cause the wound to get worse.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave your child prescription medicine, give it as prescribed.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.