How should a small tick be properly removed? - briefly
Use fine‑pointed tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until it releases; then clean the bite site with antiseptic and wash your hands. Dispose of the removed tick by placing it in alcohol or sealing it in a container.
How should a small tick be properly removed? - in detail
Removing a tiny tick requires prompt, clean technique to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Follow these steps:
- Use fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick removal tool. Grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible, holding the mouthparts rather than the body.
- Apply steady, downward pressure. Pull straight upward with even force; avoid twisting, jerking, or squeezing the tick’s abdomen, which can force infected fluid into the host.
- Inspect the attachment site after extraction. If the mouthparts remain embedded, repeat the grasping action with tweezers to pull them out completely.
- Disinfect the bite area and the tools with alcohol, iodine, or another antiseptic.
- Place the removed tick in a sealed container with a damp cotton ball. Label with date and location if testing for pathogens is desired; otherwise, discard by freezing or flushing.
- Monitor the bite site for several weeks. If redness, swelling, or a rash develops, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Key considerations: