Should I get a tetanus shot?

Question

Yesterday I had my shoes off and walked to the mailbox and stepped on a thumbtack. It looked new but had no rust on it and it did not go to deep in my foot. I bleed a little and cleaned it with peroxide. You can't tell where I stepped on it. My foot is not swollen or red but it hurts alot. I tried calling the doctor but they haven't called back and didn't know if I should just get a tetanus shot anyway, I had my last one about...6 years ago or so.

essentiallysolo · Accepted Answer

Tetanus vaccination is good for ten years.  Your foot hurts because the heel is bruised.  You don't need another shot, but I would put antibiotic cream and a bandage over the place the tack went in to prevent secondary infection.

kropdawg · Answer

Every time that your blood comes into contact with either metal, dirt, or anything of that sort it would be advisable to get a tetanus booster injection, especially if your last one isn't recent. Technically you should get a booster shot every ten years, but it's okay to supplement it in emergency situations. In the end, it's all up to you weather or not you want to proceed with the process. You say that it wasn't a deep cut and you cleaned it with peroxide, and that very well may be enough. Another factor to consider would be how long was the thumbtack in your foot for. You should share that information with your doctor and he/she can then recommend a reasonable course of action. Best of luck.

kitkat · Answer

Tetanus shots are good for 10 years , I know because I just got one. I would call the doctor back and just ask the nurse.

darci_67 · Answer

Tetanus shots are good for ten years.  If the soreness does not go away in a day or so, I would go have your foot checked.  I would keep it clean and dry and put some antibiotic ointment on it.  Good luck!

stevewbcanada · Answer

A tetanus shot is generally good for 10 years, so if you're sure it wasn't longer than that you'll probably be ok. But having one after six years won't cause any problems.

shortfrog · Answer

No, because tetanus shots are now good for 10 yrs. The tack may have hit a nerve, thue the reason for the pain.

Anonymous · Answer

Make an appointment to see your doctor.  If you can't get an appointment for tomorrow, go to a walk-in clinic.  You might not need to get a tetanus shot, but do you really want to take any chances?

dw4778 · Answer

Tetanus standard is every 10 years but with exposure it would be a good idea to get a booster

Alan S · Answer

im an r n nurse if you had a tet shot within the last 10 years you are fine, yes it will be sore for awhile, but if you see redness or a red line that travels up the leg, seek medical attention with your local doctor..

hipergirl22 · Answer

If you were to get tetanus, it would have happened already.  This happened to you yesterday so you're in the clear.  If you're still worried a call to your DR will confirm your fears were/are unecessary but undertandable

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Should I get a tetanus shot?

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