Suture or Staple Removal (Child)

Your child had a wound that was closed with sutures (stitches) or staples. The wound has healed well enough that the sutures or staples can be removed. The wound will continue to heal for the next few months.

At this time there is no sign of an infection. 

Home care

• If your child has pain, you can give him or her pain medicine as advised by your child’s health care provider. Don’t give your child any other medicine without first asking the provider.

• Keep your child’s wound clean and protected by covering it with a bandage for the next week or so. 

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after caring for your child. This helps prevent infection.

• Clean the wound gently with soap and warm water daily or as directed by your child’s health care provider. Do not use iodine, alcohol, or other cleansers on the wound. Gently pat it dry. Cover it with a new bandage, if needed. Do not re-use bandages.

• If the area gets wet, gently pat it dry with a clean cloth. Replace the wet bandage with a dry one.

• Check the wound daily for signs of infection. (These are listed under "When to seek medical advice" below.)

• Make sure your child does not pick at the wound. A baby may need to wear scratch mittens.

• Your child can now bathe or shower as usual. Don’t let your child swim until the wound is fully healed. 

Follow-up care

Follow up with your child’s health care provider.

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.