How do you sterilize a puncture wound?

Answer 1

You first wash out the area with warm, soapy water. Then you can apply disinfecting wipes. Rubbing alcohol works too. If it is serious, call 911.t

----

Try to stop the bleeding by using a sterilized gauze pad or tourniquet. You can use Neosporin or some kind of topical antibiotic ointment; Betadine Solution, an over the counter solution of 10% povidone-iodine in water; hydrogen peroxide; or rubbing alcohol. Decide whether a butterfly bandaid or stitches are needed.

Puncture wounds that are caused by rusty metal (like a nail) or an animal warrant a visit to a hospital emergency room. So if you can, drive yourself or get a ride to the ER. If the wound was caused by a rusty metal, get a tetanus shot or booster tetanus shot, stitches (if needed), and an antibiotic prescription to prevent systemic spread of infection.