What are the precautions for a patient discharged with wound glue?

Wound Glue (Tissue Adhesive) Discharge Precautions

Keep the wound glue dry for the first 24-48 hours after application, then gentle washing is permitted but avoid soaking, scrubbing, or applying ointments directly over the glue. 1, 2

Immediate Post-Application Care (First 24-48 Hours)

• Keep the area completely dry for at least 24-48 hours after wound glue application to allow proper bonding and initial wound healing 1, 2
• Do not cover the wound with a dressing unless specifically instructed, as the glue itself acts as a protective barrier 3, 4
• Avoid touching, picking, or peeling at the glue, as this can disrupt wound closure 4
• Do not apply any ointments, creams, lotions, or petroleum-based products over or near the glue, as these can dissolve the adhesive 4

After Initial 24-48 Hour Period

• Gentle washing with soap and water or showering is acceptable after the first 24-48 hours, but the wound should be patted dry gently afterward 1, 2
• Avoid soaking the wound in bathtubs, swimming pools, or hot tubs until the glue has naturally separated (typically 5-10 days) 2
• Do not scrub the area or use harsh cleansers directly on the glue 3

Activity Restrictions

• Avoid activities that cause excessive stretching, tension, or movement of the wound area, particularly in the first 5-7 days 1
• High-tension areas (such as over joints) require more careful protection and may need longer healing time 1
• Facial wounds typically heal faster due to excellent blood supply, but still require gentle handling 1

What NOT to Do

• Never apply antibiotic ointments, petroleum jelly, or other topical products over the glue, as these will cause premature dissolution of the adhesive 4
• Do not attempt to remove the glue yourself - it will naturally flake off in 5-10 days as the skin underneath heals 4
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or tanning beds on facial wounds closed with glue, as this may affect scarring 1

Signs Requiring Medical Attention

• Increasing redness, warmth, or swelling around the wound 3
• Purulent drainage or foul odor from the wound 3
• Wound edges separating or opening before the glue falls off naturally 3
• Fever or increasing pain at the wound site 3
• The glue separating prematurely (within first 5 days) 1

Expected Timeline

• The wound glue will naturally flake off and separate in 5-10 days as the underlying skin heals 1, 4
• Facial wounds may heal faster (5-7 days), while wounds in high-tension areas may take longer 1
• Do not be alarmed when the glue begins to peel at the edges - this is normal as healing progresses 4

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Patients often mistakenly apply antibiotic ointment thinking it will help healing, but this actually dissolves the glue prematurely 4
• Getting the wound wet too early (before 24-48 hours) can compromise the adhesive bond 2
• Picking at the glue edges as they begin to separate can disrupt the healing wound underneath 4