Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.About OwieClear
Check symptoms

Cut or puncture wound

Also called: Cuts, lacerations, puncture wounds, stepping on a nail

Breaks in the skin from sharp objects. Most small cuts heal with cleaning and a bandage. Deep cuts, heavy bleeding, or punctures may need stitches or a tetanus shot.

TypeSkin wound
StitchesBest within 6 to 8 hours
TetanusBooster if over 5 to 10 years

Overview

Cuts are slices through the skin. Puncture wounds are deep and narrow, like stepping on a nail, and carry a higher risk of infection.

Deep wounds can damage tendons and nerves.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Cut or puncture wound
  • Bleeding

Less common

  • Pain and swelling

Look up a symptom: Cut or puncture wound · Something stuck under the skin, like a splinter, glass, or a fishhook

When to get medical care

Call 911Bleeding that won't stop with 10 minutes of pressure, spurting blood, or a deep cut on the face, neck, chest, or belly.
Get care todayA cut that gaps open, numbness, a puncture through a shoe, or a dirty wound.
See a doctor soonSigns of infection: redness, warmth, pus, or fever.

Causes

Sharp objects, falls, tools, and nails.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Outdoor work
  • Diabetes (slow healing)

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician checks how deep it is.

Questions you may be asked

  • How it happened
  • Last tetanus shot

The exam

Checking movement and feeling past the wound.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • X-ray: If something might be stuck inside.

Treatment

Clean it well and keep it covered.

Self-care

  • Press firmly with a clean cloth: to stop bleeding
  • Rinse with clean water
  • Cover with a bandage: change it daily
  • Watch for infection

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Antibiotic ointment
Keeping wounds moist

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Stitches, glue, or strips close larger cuts.

Prevention

To prevent cuts:

  • Wear shoes outdoors
  • Use tools safely

Which doctor treats this

  • Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people can go to school or work. Keep the wound clean and covered.
  • Avoid pools and hot tubs until the skin heals.

Outlook

Most cuts heal well.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • Tetanus shot date

Questions to ask

  • Do I need stitches?
  • Do I need a tetanus shot?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Cut or puncture wound

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.