Discharge Instructions for 6-Year-Old with Absorbable Suture to Upper Left Lip
For optimal wound healing and minimal scarring, the child should avoid touching or picking at the suture site, maintain soft food intake for 1 week, and rinse with 0.12% chlorhexidine twice daily for 3 weeks. 1
Wound Care Instructions
Immediate Care (First 48-72 Hours)
- Keep the wound clean and dry
- Gently clean the suture area twice daily with mild soap and water
- Pat dry with clean gauze or cloth - do not rub
- Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if prescribed
- Avoid touching, picking, or scratching at the suture site
Diet Restrictions
- Restrict to soft foods for 1 week 2
- Avoid biting or chewing directly with the affected area
- Cut food into small pieces
- Avoid foods that could irritate the wound (spicy, acidic, crunchy)
- Drink through a straw placed away from the suture site
Oral Hygiene
- Rinse with 0.12% chlorhexidine twice daily for 3 weeks 2
- Brush teeth gently, avoiding direct contact with the suture site
- For younger children, parents should assist with oral hygiene
Pain Management
- Acetaminophen can be used as needed according to package instructions for the child's weight 1
- Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen if possible due to increased bleeding risk
- Apply cold compresses (wrapped in cloth) for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid strenuous physical activities for 1 week
- No contact sports until complete healing (2-3 weeks)
- Supervise play to prevent accidental trauma to the lip
Follow-Up Care
- The absorbable suture will dissolve on its own in approximately 5-10 days
- Schedule follow-up appointment in 7-10 days to check healing progress
- Return sooner if signs of infection develop
Scar Management
- After complete healing (2-4 weeks), gentle massage of the scar with moisturizer may help with remodeling 1
- Protect the healed wound from sun exposure with SPF 30+ for at least 6 months to prevent darkening 1
- Scar formation continues for up to 12 months
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around the wound
- Pus or excessive drainage from the wound
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Wound reopening or sutures coming out early
- Persistent bleeding that doesn't stop with gentle pressure
- Severe pain not relieved by recommended pain medication
Special Considerations for Children
- Use age-appropriate distraction techniques during wound care
- Provide simple explanations about not touching the wound
- Consider covering the area during sleep if the child tends to touch their face
- Praise and reward cooperation with wound care
The advantage of absorbable sutures in this pediatric case is that they don't require removal, which reduces anxiety and discomfort for the child 3. Studies have shown no significant difference in long-term cosmetic results between absorbable and non-absorbable sutures in facial wounds 3.