To tell you guys the truth, I actually don't have a problem with neither of the episodes.
I actually LIKE The Splinter a lot. It's not even that gross. The only gross part in my opinion is when Patrick's hammering SpongeBob's splinter in. THAT'S IT. The splinter itself didn't gross me out that much at all really, even when I was in 4th grade watching this when it first came out.
The actual episode overall was really good, and SpongeBob was REALLY likable and adorable in the episode, as he really doesn't want to leave work. Kinda similar to Suds, right? (That's a good thing)
I also really liked when SpongeBob was trying to act cheerful to Squidward when he's saying "Look at me, nothing's wrong" in a sing-songy tone and when he was always insisting "But I'm fine".
The plot was decent to me too, and I liked it.
As for Slide Whistle Stooges, I thought it was alright. Kinda similar to Snowball Effect, The Paper, Bubblestand, Idiot Box, Squidville, ect. since Squidward actually joins in and enjoys SpongeBob and Patrick's fun.
I didn't like the ending though, especially that whole hospital scene.