Depending on the size and depth of your wound it may have been closed with one of the following methods.
Stitches
A&E/UTC staff will tell you how long the stitches need to be left in (usually between 5 and 14 days). Unless you are given an appointment to return to A&E/UTC you should make an appointment with the practice nurse at your GP surgery to have the stitches removed.
Clips / Staples
These metal clips will need to be removed by the practice nurse at your GP surgery, usually after 7 days. You will be supplied with a clip remover in A&E/UTC to take to the practice nurse.
Steristrips (paper stitches)
You can remove these yourself after 5 to 7 days unless otherwise instructed by A&E/UTC. To remove the paper stitches, dampen the paper and gently remove.
Skin adhesive / Glue
Keep this dry for four to five days. When the wound is healed this will drop off itself. Do not pick it off.
Do’s
- Keep the wound clean and dry with any dressing left in place for 5 days, unless you have been advised otherwise by A&E/UTC.
- Take simple painkillers such as Paracetamol, which you can buy at the chemist. A&E/UTC or your local pharmacy can advise on other painkillers.
- If your wound is on your hand or foot, you should keep the limb elevated as much as possible for 24 hours.
Don’ts
- Don’t remove stitches or clips yourself. Your wound needs to be assessed by a healthcare professional.
- Don’t pick off scabs. This may introduce infection. They will drop off themselves.
- Don’t use waterproof covers for long lengths of time, e.g., plastic gloves, plastic bags or finger stalls as this will make the wound soggy and more likely to get infected.
Return to A&E/UTC if:
- Your wound re-opens.
- Your wound becomes red, hot, swollen and painful. It may be infected.
- Any numbness occurs around the wound.
- Any problems with movement of fingers following hand wounds.
Remember, it will take six months to a year for the redness of the scar to fade.