How to drain blood from under a nail
You may be able to relieve severe, throbbing pain by draining blood from under your nail. This procedure is not necessary and is not recommended if you are not having pain. This procedure is safe if done properly.
Note:
- Do not do this procedure unless you are confident you can do it without burning yourself. If not done properly, you could burn yourself and cause permanent nail damage.
- Do not do this procedure if you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or a disease that causes problems with your immune system.
To remove blood from under a nail:
- Straighten a paper clip, and heat the tip in a flame until it is red-hot.
- Place the tip of the paper clip on the nail and let it melt through. There are no nerves in a nail, so putting a hot paper clip on a nail should not hurt.
- Do not push or apply pressure on the paper clip. There are nerves in the skin under the nail. You could accidentally touch the skin under the nail if pressure is applied to the nail.
- Go slowly, and reheat the clip as necessary. A thick nail may take several tries.
- As soon as the hole is complete, blood will escape and the pain will be relieved.
- Expect drainage of clear or slightly bloody fluid for 2 to 3 days.
- Soak the finger in warm, soapy water for 10 minutes, 3 times a day for 2 to 3 days.
- Watch for signs of infection.
You may repeat the procedure using the same hole. The pain and pressure which is immediately relieved may build back up again in a few days.
Pain that is not relieved by this procedure may indicate a more serious injury and requires medical evaluation.
| Author: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA | Last Updated: February 14, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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