Concerned about puncture wound from old, used lancet

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C

Chicklet's mom

Member Since 2016
Hello Everyone,

I was not paying attention today and was adding the lancet that I used today into my used lancet container. One of the old and used lancets stuck into my finger causing it to bleed. My concern is that the used lancets in this container date back all the way to January. I am not concerned about the feline blood residue but am concerned about all the bacteria that could have formed on this particular lancet over the last few months. I received tetanus shots as a child but cannot recall the last time I received a tetanus booster shot. It could be well over 20 years since the last tetanus shot. I am going to go and get a tetanus booster shot as soon as my husband return home with the car. I am wondering though if anyone in a similar situation was also given the Tetanus immune globulin (TIG). Tetanus immune globulin is an antitoxin rather than a booster shot. My concern is that it will take a while for the booster shot to start working and the tetanus incubation period is between 3-21 days.

I will talk to the doctor but am wondering what was suggested to people who had a puncture would from a lancet and was very very behind on their tetanus shots. I really would appreciate any responses. My stress level has just risen, 10 fold.

LM
 
Tetanus bacteria is a soil bacteria. Depending on how the syringes were stored (in a dry sharps container?), I doubt that there would be very little of any bacteria able to grow on these. Although clostridium such as tetanus can form spores and remain dormant on surfaces, unless these were outside or stored where there may have been contamination with soil I wouldn't worry much. It's never a bad idea to get a booster. You are much more likely to get an infection with staph or strep, such as pyoderma from an injury like this. Any redness that spreads or increases should warrant a immediate trip to urgent care for antibiotics.
 
I can speak from personal experience. with barefeet I stepped on a nail and immediately got my butt to the doc for a tetanus. I then learned its not the rusty nail that is the problem - it is the soil that is the problem.

I've stuck myself with used lancets, though not ones that have been sitting around for a while. I just do a good wash with soap and water, and keep an eye on the spot for any funny business.

if you are anxious, it cant hurt to get a booster. in the least it will give you peace of mind. :)
 
If I remember correctly, you're in Canada, right? If yes, I think most provinces have 811/Telecare services where you can speak to a registered nurse about non-urgent health problems. I've never used the service, so I'm not sure what it's like, but might be worth a call to see what they say, especially if you can't speak to the doctor right away and you're worried.
 
I'd soak it in some warm water with Epsom or regular salt for 5 min or so, then apply a salve like neosprin or bacitracin and put a band aid on it. Then just keep an eye on it.
 
Hi, LM.

Glad to hear that you're healing nicely. Fingers and paws crossed that all will continue to be well.


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