Skill 75
Suture and Staple Removal
Sutures and staples are removed generally within 7 to 14 days after surgery if healing is adequate (Whitney, 2012). Retention sutures usually remain in place 14 to 21 days. Timing the removal of sutures and staples is important. They must remain in place long enough to ensure that the initial wound closure has enough strength to support internal tissues and organs. Sutures retained longer than 14 days generally leave suture marks (Whitney, 2012). The health care provider determines and orders removal of all sutures or staples at one time or removal of every other suture or staple as the first phase, with the remainder removed in the second phase.
Delegation Considerations
The skill of staple and/or suture removal cannot be delegated to nursing assistive personnel (NAP). The nurse directs NAP by:
▪ Instructing to report to the nurse patient’s complaints of pain.
▪ Providing information about any special hygiene practices following suture removal.
