Overview

Small pieces (splinters) of wood, metal, glass, or plastic can get stuck under a fingernail. Thorns from roses and other plants also can prick or become stuck in the skin. Splinters can cause pain and infection if they are not removed.

If your doctor removed part of your nail, it should grow back normally

As your wound heals, it may get a little red or swollen. But it should get better with time.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor told you how to care for your wound, follow your doctor's instructions. If you did not get instructions, follow this general advice:
  • 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.
• Your doctor may have used medicine to numb your finger. When it wears off, your pain may come back. Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• It may help to prop up your hand on a pillow anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.