How should a tick be pulled out of a person? - briefly
Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting; then clean the bite site with antiseptic and wash your hands.
How should a tick be pulled out of a person? - in detail
Removing a feeding tick from a human requires steady hands, proper tools, and prompt action to minimise pathogen transmission.
First, gather a pair of fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialised tick‑removal device. Disinfect the instruments with alcohol or an antiseptic solution before use. Clean the skin surrounding the parasite with soap and water, then apply a disinfectant wipe.
Next, grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Position the tweezers at the head or mouthparts, avoiding compression of the abdomen, which could cause engorged fluid to be expelled. Apply steady, downward pressure and pull straight upward with constant force. Do not twist, jerk, or rock the tick, as these motions increase the risk of breaking the mouthparts.
After extraction, place the tick in a sealed container with a cotton swab for identification if needed, and discard it safely. Inspect the bite site for any remaining parts; if fragments are visible, repeat the removal process using the same technique.
Finally, cleanse the area with an antiseptic solution and cover it with a clean bandage if necessary. Monitor the site for redness, swelling, or a rash over the following weeks. Seek medical attention if a rash resembling a bull’s‑eye, fever, or flu‑like symptoms develop, as these may indicate infection such as Lyme disease or other tick‑borne illnesses.