How to Remove Surgical Staples

Cleanse the wound., Slide the lower part of a staple remover under the middle of the staple., Squeeze the handles of the staple remover until they are completely closed., Take out the staple by releasing the pressure on the handles., Use the staple...

8 Steps 2 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Cleanse the wound.

    Depending on the condition of the healed incision, use saline, an antiseptic such as alcohol, or sterile swabs to remove any debris or dried fluids from the wound. , Begin at one end of the healed incision.

    This is a specialized tool doctors use to take out surgical staples. , The upper part of the staple remover will push down the middle of the staple, causing the staple ends to pull out of the incision. , When the staples are removed, drop them into a disposable container or bag.

    Pull out the medical staple in the same direction it went in to avoid tearing your skin.

    You might feel a slight pinch, sting or tugging sensation.

    This is normal. , When the end of the incision is reached, inspect the area again to check for any staples that may have been missed.

    This will help to prevent future skin irritation and infection. ,, The type of covering applied depends on how well the wound has healed.

    Use a butterfly bandage if the there is still skin separation.

    This will provide support and help to prevent the formation of a larger scar.

    Use a light gauze dressing to prevent irritation.

    This will act as a buffer between the affected area and your clothing.

    Expose the healing incision to the air, if possible.

    Make sure to not to cover the affected area with clothing, to avoid irritation. , The redness around the closed incision should fade over a few weeks.Follow your doctor's advice on wound care, and be aware of the following signs of infection:
    Redness and irritation around the affected area.

    Affected area is hot to the touch.

    Increased pain.

    Yellow or green discharge.

    Fever.
  2. Step 2: Slide the lower part of a staple remover under the middle of the staple.

  3. Step 3: Squeeze the handles of the staple remover until they are completely closed.

  4. Step 4: Take out the staple by releasing the pressure on the handles.

  5. Step 5: Use the staple remover to remove all the other staples.

  6. Step 6: Cleanse the wound with antiseptic again.

  7. Step 7: Apply a dry dressing or bandage if needed.

  8. Step 8: Watch for signs of infection.

Detailed Guide

Depending on the condition of the healed incision, use saline, an antiseptic such as alcohol, or sterile swabs to remove any debris or dried fluids from the wound. , Begin at one end of the healed incision.

This is a specialized tool doctors use to take out surgical staples. , The upper part of the staple remover will push down the middle of the staple, causing the staple ends to pull out of the incision. , When the staples are removed, drop them into a disposable container or bag.

Pull out the medical staple in the same direction it went in to avoid tearing your skin.

You might feel a slight pinch, sting or tugging sensation.

This is normal. , When the end of the incision is reached, inspect the area again to check for any staples that may have been missed.

This will help to prevent future skin irritation and infection. ,, The type of covering applied depends on how well the wound has healed.

Use a butterfly bandage if the there is still skin separation.

This will provide support and help to prevent the formation of a larger scar.

Use a light gauze dressing to prevent irritation.

This will act as a buffer between the affected area and your clothing.

Expose the healing incision to the air, if possible.

Make sure to not to cover the affected area with clothing, to avoid irritation. , The redness around the closed incision should fade over a few weeks.Follow your doctor's advice on wound care, and be aware of the following signs of infection:
Redness and irritation around the affected area.

Affected area is hot to the touch.

Increased pain.

Yellow or green discharge.

Fever.

About the Author

J

Jennifer Sanchez

A passionate writer with expertise in cooking topics. Loves sharing practical knowledge.

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