You have been treated for an Open Wound. You have been thoroughly examined and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following will aid your recovery.
The Key Messages:
What to look out for:
If this occurs return to the Emergency Department |
Your wound may have been treated by suturing (stitches), wound closure strips (butterfly plasters), medical glue or other appropriate wound dressing.
Keep the wound dry – wash around the area and elevate the wound if possible.
Do not cover with waterproof fingerstalls, gloves or plastic bags as this will make the wound soggy and prone to infection in certain circumstances.
Stitches
The sutures should be removed in 5–14 days, as advised this is a relatively painless procedure. The sutures will be removed by your GP Practice Nurse. You are responsible for making the necessary appointment and sutures will not be removed by the Emergency Department.
Wound Closure Strips
Wound closure strips can be removed after 5–14 days (depending where your wound is and healing time). The strips should be soaked and gently peeled off from each side toward the wound. This can be done at home or by your GP Practice Nurse.
Glue (Tissue Adhesive)
Medical glue does not need to be removed as it flakes off by itself when the wound is healed. This normally takes about 2 weeks. A scab will form on the wound, which will come away once you start washing the area, do not pick the glue off. Keep the wound clean and dry for 5 days.
Scarring
Scarring is a normal part of the healing process. There is a small chance the wound will re-open which may increase your chance of scarring. The redness of the scar may take 6 months or more to fade. You can use a moisturiser once the wound has healed. Contact your GP or Practice Nurse if you are concerned.
Infection ‘Be alert to the signs’
Seek medical help if:
- There is increased redness, swelling or tenderness
- There is pus or unusual fluid draining from the wound
- There are tender lumps in your armpit or groin
- There are red streaks going up your arm or leg (if your wound is on your upper or lower limb this may occur)
- You have chills or a fever
Good Nutrition for Wound Healing
After an injury our bodies need more nutrients to help repair the damage; particularly water, calories and protein. It is particularly important that we eat and drink to aid wound healing. Do not smoke.
We do not provide a wound review service in the Emergency Department unless you’ve been given specific instructions to return.
If you are worried about the wound, contact your GP/Practice Nurse or local Minor Injuries Unit/ Walk in Centre for a review. Details of your nearest one can be found at www.nhs.uk.
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