Discharge Instructions for Laceration Staples
Keep the wound clean and dry for the first 24-48 hours, then clean gently with soap and tap water, monitor for infection signs, manage pain with over-the-counter medications, and return for staple removal at the appropriate time based on wound location.
Wound Care and Hygiene
- Keep the wound dry for the first 24-48 hours after staple placement to allow initial healing 1, 2
- After the initial period, clean the wound gently with soap and tap water of drinking quality once or twice daily 3, 4
- Pat the area dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent maceration 3
- Showering is generally safe after 24-48 hours, but avoid soaking the wound in baths or swimming until staples are removed 3
- No need for sterile technique during home wound care; clean tap water is adequate 4
Pain and Swelling Management
- Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed for pain control 1, 2, 5
- Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times daily during the first 24-48 hours to reduce pain and swelling 1, 2, 5
- Elevate the affected area when possible to minimize swelling 6
Dressing Management
- Change dressings once or twice daily or when they become wet or soiled 3
- Consider using foam dressings rather than gauze if there is any drainage, as foam lifts moisture away from the skin and reduces maceration 3
- After initial healing (typically 3-7 days), dressings may be reduced or eliminated based on wound appearance 3
Activity Restrictions
- For lacerations near joints or on the hands, minimize movement of the affected area for the first few days 5
- Consider using a splint or sling for extensive lacerations or those crossing joints to prevent tension on the repair 5
- Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting that could stress the wound until staples are removed 6
Infection Monitoring
Watch for these signs of infection and seek immediate care if they develop:
- Increasing pain after the first 48 hours 1
- Increasing redness spreading beyond the wound edges 1
- Swelling that worsens after initial improvement 1
- Purulent (pus) discharge or foul odor 3, 1
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C) 6
- Red streaking from the wound 6
Staple Removal Timing
Staple removal timing depends on wound location 4:
- Scalp: 7-10 days 7
- Face: 3-5 days (though staples are rarely used on the face) 4
- Trunk: 7-10 days 4, 7
- Arms and legs: 7-10 days 4, 7
- Joints (over areas of movement): 10-14 days 4
- Hands and feet: 10-14 days 4
Return to the emergency department or your healthcare provider for staple removal at the scheduled time 6, 7
Additional Considerations
- Ensure tetanus immunization is up to date; if uncertain, contact your provider 8, 4
- If the wound was from an animal or human bite, or was heavily contaminated, you may have been prescribed antibiotics—complete the full course as directed 8
- Avoid applying topical antibiotics or ointments unless specifically instructed, as they can interfere with staple adherence 6
- Protect the wound from sun exposure for several months after healing to minimize scarring 6
When to Seek Immediate Care
Return to the emergency department immediately if you experience: