Construction job sites in Illinois can be dangerous places. And one of the hazards is the risk of stepping on a nail. Stepping on a nail is always painful and, if not treated properly, can become an ongoing health issue. The outcome of such an accident can range from a minor inconvenience to a major health crisis. Your actions after stepping on a nail can determine which it will be.
The immediate aftermath
Construction accidents in Illinois are inevitable, but if you step on a nail, your first priority should be to assess the damage. If you’re bleeding heavily, or you believe you’ve damaged a bone by the nail puncture, seek immediate medical attention.
Otherwise, your next priority is to clean the wound. And there are a few tips to keep in mind when doing so.
Wash and sterilize
When cleaning wounds, be sure to wash your hands and sterilize any tools, like tweezers, that you use. It’s possible to introduce bacteria into a wound through your hands or instruments.
Apply antibiotic cream
Ultimately, you will want to apply an antibiotic cream to the wound, but first, make sure to wash the wound thoroughly and remove any visible debris or shards. Then, bandage the wound completely for the next several days.
Long term risks
There are two main dangers to stepping on a nail. The first is tetanus, and the second is infection.
Tetanus
If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years, or if you observe that the nail you stepped on is visibly rusty, try to get a tetanus shot within the next 48 hours.
Infection
Infection can develop even if you wash and bandage the wound. If you observe increasing soreness, reddened skin, abnormal swelling or are feeling feverish, seek medical attention.
Stepping on a nail is an unfortunate accident, but if you follow the proper steps and stay vigilant, you can prevent it from becoming a serious long-term issue. If the construction site was negligent in properly maintaining the area, you might be eligible to receive compensation for your injury. If the construction site was negligent in properly maintaining the area, you might be eligible to receive compensation for your injury. Money may come from an insurance company or, if that amount isn’t sufficient, a court-ordered judgment.
