First Aid & Emergencies

Fishhook Injuries

For a Fishhook in or Near Eye:

1. Protect Eye From Further Injury

• Do not try to remove fishhook or put pressure on eye.
• Call for emergency medical help.
• Place a paper cup over the eye and tape it in place. Be careful not to put pressure on the fishhook or eye. 
• If possible, cover the uninjured eye, too.

For Fishhook Injuries Not on Face:

1. Remove Hook

• If only tip -- not the barb -- is in skin, gently pull out hook.
• If barb is stuck but you can see it, cut off barb with pliers and pull out ends.
• If barb is stuck and you can't see it, push hook through wound until barb emerges, then cut and remove barb and shaft.

2. Stop Bleeding

• Apply steady pressure with sterile gauze or clean cloth until bleeding stops.

3. Clean and Protect

• Rinse wound under clean water for several minutes. Then wash area with mild soap and water, and rinse again.
• Cover with sterile bandage.

4. Get Medical Help Immediately

• See a doctor or go to a hospital emergency room.
• The person may need a tetanus shot and pain reliever.