Skin Foreign Object

FIRST AID Advice - Removing a Fishhook from a Finger

This method of fishhook removal is sometimes called the Advance and Cut Method.

There are four steps in removing a fishhook:

  1. Step 1. Using pliers (or needle drivers) firmly grasp the hook.
  2. Step 2. Push (advance) the hook until the tip of the hook pops out through the skin.
  3. Step 3. Cut off the tip of the hook and the barb.
  4. Step 4. Back out the hook out.

Important Note:

  • Use these instructions when you can't get into see a doctor right away. Most of the time, it is best to have a doctor (or other health care provider) remove a fishhook.
  • The hook in this drawing has only a single barb at the tip, so the tip of the hook (with the barb) can be cut off and the hook pulled backwards through the skin.
  • Some hooks can have more than one barb. In such cases, it is better to cut off the ring at the bottom of the hook and push the hook all of the way through the skin.

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FIRST AID Advice - Removing a Fishhook from a Finger