Medical Assistant Prep / Unit 15 MAS 362 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Removing Interrupted Sutures
The idea
Interrupted sutures are removed one at a time with sterile scissors and forceps, on the provider's order.
In practice
Step one: confirm the order, explain that the patient may feel some pulling but should not feel pain, and inspect the wound for even closure without drainage, redness or swelling. Step two: clean the incision as directed. Step three: with forceps, gently lift the knot. Step four: slip the scissors under the suture and cut close to the skin, on one side of the knot only. Step five: pull the suture out by the knot in one smooth motion, so the part that was outside the skin never passes through the tissue. Step six: remove every second suture first, checking the wound after each one, then the rest, and apply adhesive closure strips if ordered.
Where people slip
Never cut both ends of the knot, because the remaining piece cannot then be pulled out. And if the wound edges begin to open, stop and notify the provider.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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