What should be done to pull out a tick? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and wash your hands.
What should be done to pull out a tick? - in detail
Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible, securing the head and mouthparts without squeezing the body. Apply steady, upward pressure; do not twist or jerk, which can cause the mouthparts to break off. Once the tick detaches, place it in a sealed container if identification is needed, then discard.
After removal, clean the bite site with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic such as iodine or alcohol. Wash your hands thoroughly. Observe the area for several weeks; a red ring or flu‑like symptoms may indicate infection and require medical evaluation. If the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, if you live in an area where Lyme disease or other tick‑borne illnesses are common, or if you develop any unusual signs, consult a healthcare professional promptly.