Procedure for Removal of Sutures Equipment required: Dressing trolley cleaned as per infection control policy, suture removal pack / – suture remover and sterile gloves normasol, sterile gauze, appropriate dressings. Procedure Clean the dressing trolley Gather and open the required equipment using a sterile technique normasol – gauze, suture remover, basic dressing (or suture removal pack if available) Wash hands and open stitch cutter Assess wound to ensure suture removal is appropriate and to anticipate whether a dressing / steristrips may be required. Count the number of stitches to be removed Grasp the side of the suture with the knot on and gently lift away from skin Using the stitch cutter, cut the stitch as close to the skin as possible Gently pull the stitch through the skin, do not use undue force At any point, if you are concerned about the integrity of the wound, review whether removal is appropriate If in doubt, seek more advice from experienced Practitioner regarding removal of alternate sutures / steristrips etc. Count the number of stitches removed If necessary, clean the wound gently and apply and appropriate Dispose of sharps in sharps bin and other equipment in clinical waste bag Wash hands Document procedure in patient notes
Procedure for Removal of Sutures Equipment required: Dressing trolley – cleaned as per infection control policy, suture removal pack / suture remover and sterile gloves normasol, sterile gauze, appropriate dressings. Procedure Clean the dressing trolley Gather and open the required equipment using a sterile technique – normasol gauze, suture remover, basic dressing (or suture removal pack if available) Wash hands and open stitch cutter Assess wound to ensure suture removal is appropriate and to anticipate whether a dressing / steristrips may be required. Count the number of stitches to be removed Grasp the side of the suture with the knot on and gently lift away from skin Using the stitch cutter, cut the stitch as close to the skin as possible Gently pull the stitch through the skin, do not use undue force At any point, if you are concerned about the integrity of the wound, review whether removal is appropriate If in doubt, seek more advice from experienced Practitioner regarding removal of alternate sutures / steristrips etc. Count the number of stitches removed If necessary, clean the wound gently and apply and appropriate Dispose of sharps in sharps bin and other equipment in clinical waste bag Wash hands Document procedure in patient notes