1. Remove the shoe.
Unlace or unbuckle the shoe completely and remove it gently. If the victim is in severe pain, use scissors or a very sharp knife to cut the laces and save time.
2. Remove large shards of glass.
Wrap a napkin around the protruding piece. Using a single swift motion, pull the shard directly out of the foot.
3. Determine the source of bleeding.
Check for any remaining shards and remove them.
4. Stop the bleeding.
Using towels, napkins, or tablecloths, apply direct pressure to the wound for 5 minutes. If the wound is spurting, sustain pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Clean the foot.
Soak the foot in a bowl filled with warm water, then use a damp napkin or clean sponge to gently rub off any remaining blood.
6. Inspect the wound.
Using your fingers, gently spread the sides of the wound apart. Look closely for any remaining glass shards. Remove with sterile tweezers (hold the tweezers under hot running water for 30 seconds, then in a candle flame for 30 seconds). The wound should stop bleeding profusely when all the glass has been removed.
7. Treat and bandage.
Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the wound. Cover with a sterile adhesive bandage or gauze and medical tape.
Be Aware
• Wounds through the sole of the shoe may become infected by the microbe Pseudomonas.
• Wounds 1⁄2 inch in length or longer should be sutured at a hospital.
• If the victim has not had a tetanus booster in the last five years, one should be given at a hospital within 48 hours of the injury.
• Seeping from the injury site may indicate that glass remains in the wound.
• When wrapping a glass in a napkin for the Jewish wedding ritual, be sure to lay the glass on its side before stomping on it.
