What should you do if a tick is deeply attached? - briefly
Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as near to the skin surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or squeezing the body. Clean the bite site with an antiseptic and watch for any signs of infection or illness.
What should you do if a tick is deeply attached? - in detail
When a tick has penetrated the skin and its mouthparts are anchored deep, removal must be precise to prevent infection and avoid leaving fragments behind.
First, gather the proper tools: fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal device, antiseptic solution, clean gloves, and a small container with a lid for disposal. Disinfect the tweezers and the bite area before beginning.
Next, grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Position the tweezers at the base of the mouthparts, not at the body, to minimize crushing. Apply steady, even pressure and pull straight upward. Do not twist, jerk, or squeeze the tick’s body, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off.
If resistance is encountered, maintain gentle, constant traction; excessive force can damage surrounding tissue. After extraction, inspect the bite site. If any portion of the tick remains embedded, repeat the procedure with fresh tweezers. Do not attempt to dig out remnants with a needle or burn them, as these actions increase the risk of infection.
Once the tick is fully removed, clean the area with antiseptic and allow it to air dry. Store the tick in a sealed container for up to two weeks if identification or testing for disease is required. Dispose of the container by placing it in a sealed bag and discarding it in the trash.
Monitor the site over the following days. If redness, swelling, a rash, or flu‑like symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly and inform the clinician about the tick bite and any preventive measures taken.