Cut Steri-Strips to allow them to extend 1.5 to 2 cm on each side of incisionġ3. This allows wound to heal by primary intention. Steri-Strips support wound tension across wound and eliminate scarring. Remove sterile backing to apply Steri-Strips. Continue to remove every second staple to the end of the incision lineġ2. Using the principles of sterile technique, place Steri-Strips on location of every removed staple along incision line.Ĭut Steri-Strips to allow them to extend 1.5 to 2 cm on each side of incision. Continue to remove every second staple to the end of the incision line.Īlternating removal of staples provides strength to incision line while removing staples and prevents accidental separation of incision line. Keep the handle closed and move the staple extractor away from the skinġ1. It also prevents scratching the skin with the sharp staple. This avoids pulling the staple out prematurely and avoids putting pressure on the wound. When both ends of the staple are visible, move the staple extractor away from the skin and place the staple on a sterile piece of gauze by releasing the handles on the staple extractor. Close the handle, then gently move the staple from side to side to removeġ0. The closed handle depresses the middle of the staple causing the two ends to bend outward and out of the top layer of skin. Close the handle, then gently move the staple side to side to remove. Do not pull up while depressing handle on staple remover or change the angle of your wrist or hand. Place lower tip of staple extractor beneath the staple. To Remove Staples (start with every second staple).ĩ. Clean incision siteĬleaning also loosens and removes any dried blood or crusted exudate from the staples and wound bed. This reduces the risk of infection from microorganisms on the wound site or surrounding skin. Clean incision site according to agency policy. If concerns are present, question the order and seek advice from the appropriate health care provider. Remove dressing and inspect the woundĪfter assessing the wound, determine if the wound is sufficiently healed to have the staples removed. Visually assess the wound for uniform closure of the edges, absence of drainage, redness, and inflammation. This step allows easy access to required supplies for the procedure. Prepare the sterile field and add necessary supplies (staple extractor). Position patient appropriately and create privacy for procedure.Įnsure proper body mechanics for yourself and create a comfortable position for the patient. Gather sterile staple extractors, sterile dressing tray, non-sterile gloves, normal saline, Steri-Strips, and sterile outer dressing.ģ. Inform patient the procedure is not painful but the patent may feel some pulling or pinching of the skin during staple removal. Confirm physician orders, and explain procedure to patient.Įxplanation helps prevent anxiety and increases compliance with the procedure. Explain process to patient and offer analgesia, bathroom, etc.ġ.Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth). Checklist 36: Staple Removal Disclaimer: Always review and follow your hospital policy regarding this specific skill. In general, staples are removed within 7 to 14 days.Ĭhecklist 36 outlines the steps for removing staples from a wound. The health care professional performing the removal must also inspect the wound prior to the procedure to ensure the wound is adequately healed to have the staples removed. Usually every second staple is removed initially then the remainder are removed at a later time (Perry et al., 2014). Removal of staples requires sterile technique and a staple extractor. An order to remove the staples, and any specific directions for removal, must be obtained prior to the procedure. The aesthetic outcome may not be as desirable as a suture line, but staples are strong, quick to insert, and simple to remove. Staples are made of stainless steel wire and provide strength for wound closure. The wound location sometimes restricts their use because the staples must be far enough away from organs and structures.
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