From the Guidelines
A wound with stitches that is not infected typically appears clean with edges that are well-approximated, and the skin surrounding the wound should be its normal color or slightly pink, but not intensely red, as noted in the study by 1. The wound might have some clear or slightly yellow discharge in small amounts during the first few days, which is normal serous fluid.
- The stitches themselves should be intact and the wound line should be closing properly.
- The patient usually experiences mild discomfort or tenderness around the wound site, but not severe pain.
- There should be no foul odor coming from the wound. As healing progresses, a scab may form along the suture line, which is part of the normal healing process.
- The skin around the wound should feel warm but not hot to touch. These signs indicate that the wound is healing properly without infection, and the patient should continue to keep the wound clean and follow their healthcare provider's instructions for wound care, which typically includes keeping the area dry and clean, avoiding submerging in water until advised, and attending follow-up appointments for stitch removal at the appropriate time, as suggested by 1. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, provides guidance on wound care, emphasizing the importance of keeping the wound clean and dry, and avoiding advanced dressings on primarily closed surgical wounds. According to 1, the surgical wound dressing can be removed for a minimum of 48 hours after surgery unless leakage occurs, and there is no evidence that extending medication time implies a reduction in SSIs. It is essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions for wound care to promote proper healing and prevent infection, as noted in the studies by 1.
From the Research
Description of a Wound with Stitches that is Not Infected
A wound with stitches that is not infected is typically characterized by:
- The absence of signs of infection such as redness, swelling, increased pain, or purulent discharge
- The presence of a clean and dry wound bed with no visible debris or necrotic tissue
- The stitches are clean and intact, with no signs of dehiscence or wound breakdown
- The surrounding tissue is healthy and shows no signs of inflammation or infection
Wound Care and Management
Studies have shown that proper wound care and management can help prevent infection and promote healing. For example, the use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with silver dressings has been shown to be effective in reducing bacteria and promoting wound healing 2, 3, 4. Additionally, the use of antimicrobial solutions and dressings can help prevent infection and promote a clean wound environment 5.
Prevention and Management of Wound Infection
It is essential to identify and manage wound infection early to prevent negative outcomes. This can be achieved through:
- Regular monitoring of the wound for signs of infection
- Proper wound care and management, including the use of antimicrobial dressings and solutions
- Early intervention and treatment of any signs of infection
- Education and awareness of the risk factors and signs of wound infection 6