Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 121 SUTURE/STAPLE REMOVAL PURPOSE: Suture/staple removal is done in accordance with specific physician's orders and any specific conditions regarding removal (e.g., every other suture, etc.). The wound should be assessed prior to removal of sutures/staples and the physician notified if wound healing is not adequate. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: RN, LPN EQUIPMENT: Disposable gloves, suture removal kit with forceps and curved scissors or surgical staple remover, alcohol pads, dressing materials (as ordered) SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: 1. Never allow a visibly exposed piece of suture material to be pulled below the skin. 2. Continuous suturing has one piece of suture material secured by an initial and a closing knot. 3. With interrupted suturing each suture is self-contained. 4. The method of suture removal is dependent upon whether the suturing is continuous or intermittent. PROCEDURE: 1. Wash hands. Put on gloves. 2. Cleanse suture line with alcohol sponge. 3. Remove sutures/staples as follows: Interrupted sutures - Technique 1: a. Grasp suture knot with forceps b. Cut suture as close to the skin as possible on the opposite side from knot. c. Lift forceps. Suture may be lifted out without trauma. Interrupted sutures - Technique 2: a. Grasp suture knot with forceps b. Lift up with forceps c . Cut as close to the skin (under the knot) as possible. Lift up with the forceps. Suture may be lifted out without trauma. Continuous sutures: a. Choose one side of suture line and cut as close as possible to the skin. Proceed from beginning suture to last suture before interrupting the cutting. b. Using the forceps, lift each segment out from the opposite side from the original cut. Staples: a. Inform patient of potential for minor discomfort during staple removal.