---
title: "Splinter Probe | First Aid Glossary"
description: "A splinter probe is a sterile tool for safely removing splinters or small foreign objects from the skin during first aid."
canonical: "https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources/glossary/splinter-probe"
---

# Splinter Probe

[Resources](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources) › [Glossary](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources/glossary)

## What is a splinter probe and how is it used in first aid?

A splinter probe is a sterile, pointed first aid tool designed to lift the skin slightly and help remove splinters or other small foreign objects safely.

A splinter probe is a small, sterile, pointed tool included in some first aid kits to assist with the removal of splinters or other tiny foreign objects from the skin. It is used to gently lift the skin above a splinter, making it easier to grasp with sterilised tweezers.

Splinter probes are single-use and sterile, helping reduce the risk of infection when dealing with minor injuries. They are particularly useful for splinters that are embedded just under the skin, where tweezers alone might not be effective.

To use a splinter probe safely, first wash your hands and clean the affected area. Using the probe, gently lift the skin above the splinter, then remove the object with tweezers. After removal, clean the wound thoroughly, apply antiseptic, and cover if necessary.

While splinter probes are safe for minor first aid, deeply embedded splinters, splinters near the eye, or signs of infection should be assessed by a healthcare professional rather than managed at home.

## Signs & symptoms

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## How to use a splinter probe:

1. Wash your hands and clean the area around the splinter.
2. Use the sterile splinter probe to gently lift the skin over the splinter.
3. Remove the splinter with sterilised tweezers.
4. Clean the wound and apply antiseptic.
5. Cover with a small dressing if needed and watch for infection.

> A splinter probe helps lift and remove small splinters safely.

## Related video: Splinter Probe Safe and Effective First Aid Tool for Splinter Removal

[Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPapsPfq8to)

## Learn this hands-on

A nationally accredited first aid course covers this and much more. [Find a course and check live session availability](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/#find-course).

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