Wound closure

Steristrip dressing

How to look after my Steristrips

1. Keep them dry and avoid touching.
2. Leave them in place for a minimum of 5 to 7 days and no longer than 14 days.

How to remove my Steristrips

1. Soak them with water and carefully peel them off.
2. If they are not easily removed, trim them and allow them to fall off naturally.

Skin glue

What is skin glue?

Skin glue can be best described as a very sophisticated super glue for human use. It works by putting an artificial scab over the wound, holding it together. Just like an ordinary scab, it will come open if knocked or picked.

Why was it chosen to close my child’s wounds?

Skin glue is used in many accident and emergency departments because of its excellent cosmetic effect and painless application.

Depending on where your child’s wound is, sometimes applying glue is the most effective way of closing the wound.

How should my child look after the cut once it has been glued?

You can find more information about skin glue here: How do I care for a wound treated with skin glue?

Stitches

How do I look after my stitches?

Your child’s stitches

These should be removed by your GP or Emergency Department after the number of days suggested.

You can find more information about stitches here: How should I care for my stitches?

Hair knots

How to look after my hair knots?

1. Keep them dry
2. Leave them in place for 7 days
3. Avoid catching the knot when combing or brushing the hair

How to remove my hair knots?

1. Cut the knot off
2. If this is not easy, leave the hair to grow until it can be cut off more easily

General points about wounds

What should I do if I have any problems?

Please seek advice from your GP, NHS 111 or the Accident and Emergency Department if:

• The cut re-opens
• The cut or surrounding area becomes red, swollen or develops a discharge

How long will it take for the scar to fade?

The scar will take approximately 6 months to fade. Once healed, use sun block on exposed scars as they are more likely to sunburn.