Discharge Instructions for Scalp Laceration Repaired with Staples
For optimal wound healing and patient outcomes, the patient should be instructed to keep the staples in place for 7-10 days, take over-the-counter pain medications as needed, and return for staple removal or consider home removal if properly trained.
Wound Care Instructions
Keeping the Wound Clean
- Keep the stapled area dry for the first 24 hours
- After 24 hours, gentle washing of the area is permitted with mild soap and water
- Pat the area dry gently with a clean towel; do not rub
- Avoid hair products (shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, gel) for the first 48 hours 1
Dressing Management
- If a dressing was applied, it can typically be removed after 24 hours
- Once removed, the wound can be left open to air
- Apply a thin layer of white petrolatum (Vaseline) to the wound 1-2 times daily 2
- No antibiotic ointment is necessary as studies show white petrolatum is equally effective 2
Pain Management
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) 650-1000 mg every 6 hours as needed for pain
- If acetaminophen is insufficient, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 400-600 mg every 6 hours can be taken
- Avoid aspirin as it may increase bleeding risk
- Ice packs may be applied to the area for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and pain 1
Staple Removal
- Staples should remain in place for 7-10 days
- Return to the clinic or emergency department for staple removal
- Alternatively, if the patient has a reliable caregiver, home removal may be considered:
- Studies show 93% success rate with proper instruction
- Home removal saves time (64% of patients would spend >2 hours for clinic removal)
- Reduces lost wages and missed school/work time 3
Warning Signs (When to Return to the ED)
- Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound
- Pus or foul-smelling drainage from the wound
- Fever greater than 100.4°F (38°C)
- Increasing pain not relieved by prescribed pain medications
- Opening of the wound or staples falling out
- Persistent bleeding that doesn't stop with gentle pressure
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for 48 hours
- Do not drive for 24 hours if sedation was used during the procedure 1
- Resume normal activities gradually as comfort allows
- Avoid activities that could result in head trauma for at least one week
Follow-up Care
- Schedule a follow-up appointment in 7-10 days for staple removal if not removing at home
- Document the staple repair in the patient's medical record
- Ensure the patient has contact information for questions or concerns
Important Reminders
- Scalp wounds typically heal well due to excellent blood supply
- Staples provide effective wound closure with lower risk of infection compared to other methods 4
- Scarring is typically minimal and will be covered by hair growth
This comprehensive discharge plan addresses wound care, pain management, activity restrictions, and follow-up instructions to ensure optimal healing of the scalp laceration while minimizing complications.