Wound care
Your wound may have been treated by Suturing (stitches), Steristrips or Medical Glue.
The method depends on the type of wound.
Keep the dressing clean—wash around it where possible but always ensure the area is dry – a hair dryer may help if you are not able to dry in other ways
Sutures
- Sutures are normally removed between 5—7 days.
- The Sutures will usually be removed by your Practice Nurse or own GP.
Steristrips
- Steristrips can be removed after 5—7 days.
- The wound should be moistened for about ten minutes and the strips carefully removed.
- This can be done at home or by your Practice Nurse or own GP
Glue
- Medical Glue does not need to be removed, as the glue will drop off by itself when the wound is healed.
Tissue Adhesive
What You Should Know About ‘Glue’
The glue is a special ‘medical glue’ designed to treat wounds. It is NOT superglue
Keep the wound clean and dry for 5 days.
If a dressing has been applied, leave it in place for 5 days.
If you are worried about the wound, go to your Practice Nurse or own GP for advice.
A scab will form on the wound, which will come away once you start washing the area.
Once the wound is healer the scar that has formed will take at least 6 months to fade.
You may experience some pain; take painkillers for the pain – paracetamol or ibuprofen. For advice on higher strength painkillers speak to the pharmacist who will advise.
Do not pick!
What ever method of closure has been used there is a small chance the wound will re-open. Don’t worry either see your Practice Nurse or GP.
