• Keep the stitches clean and dry for 48 hours. They will usually have a dressing on for this time. After 48 hours stitches can generally be left uncovered so the wound can heal naturally.
• Don’t pick at the stitches. When showering, do not scrub at them as they could become undone and this would cause the wound to open back up. Baths should be avoided whilst the stitches are still in but showering is ok.

• Dissolvable stitches do not need removing unless your nurse practitioner or doctor has specifically requested this. They should dissolve within 2 weeks but sometimes take slightly longer.
• If the stitches are not dissolvable then your nurse practitioner or doctor should tell you when to have them removed. They will stay in for 5-14 days depending on how severe the wound was.
• Unless you are told otherwise, stitches should be removed by your practice nurse within your GP surgery.

Simple analgesics can be used after a wound, most of which can be bought over the counter in shops, supermarkets or pharmacy’s. Examples are:

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen

You may have been prescribed an alternative pain killer, please refer to specific advice for that tablet if this is the case.

Wounds closed using stitches should have a scab develop when the stitches are taken out. It can take around 2 weeks to heal fully. Sometimes it can take longer, depending how severe the wound was.

• Redness, foul smell, discharging pus or feeling unwell are signs of infection. If you have any of these seek medical advice through your GP or local Emergency Department.
• If after the stitches are removed the wound re-opens or doesn’t seem like it has closed properly then return to your local Emergency Department.
• If you have any concerns or queries about your stitches, contact NHS 111 or your local GP. If your concern is an emergency, go to your local Emergency Department.