From the Research
It is generally not recommended to shower with staples in your head until you receive specific instructions from your healthcare provider. Typically, you should keep the stapled wound dry for at least 24-48 hours after the procedure. After this initial period, your doctor may allow gentle showering with some precautions:
- avoid direct water pressure on the wound,
- don't scrub the area,
- pat it dry gently afterward, and
- apply any prescribed ointment or dressing as directed. Some healthcare providers may recommend covering the staples with a waterproof dressing or plastic wrap secured with waterproof tape before showering. This caution is necessary because excessive moisture can increase the risk of infection and potentially compromise the healing process. The metal staples themselves won't rust or deteriorate from brief water exposure, but the wound site needs protection. Always follow your specific post-procedure instructions, as recommendations may vary based on the location of your staples, the type of procedure performed, and your individual healing progress 1, 2, 3.
Note that the provided evidence does not directly address the question of showering with staples in the head, but general medical knowledge and principles of wound care guide the recommendation to prioritize wound dryness and protection to minimize the risk of infection and promote healing.
In real-life clinical practice, the primary concern is preventing infection and ensuring the wound heals properly.
- The risk of infection is a significant consideration,
- and excessive moisture can exacerbate this risk. Given the potential consequences of infection on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, it is prudent to err on the side of caution and follow the guidance of a healthcare provider regarding wound care and showering with staples in the head.
The studies provided 1, 2, 3 discuss various topics related to antibiotics and cross-reactivity but do not offer direct guidance on the management of staples in the head during showering. However, they underscore the importance of careful consideration in medical decision-making to prevent complications such as infection. In the context of showering with staples, the focus should remain on minimizing the risk of infection and promoting a safe environment for wound healing, as guided by healthcare provider instructions and general principles of wound care.