YOUR DRESSING
Your wound has been repaired using subcutaneous stitches (stitches under the skin). The stitches are self-dissolving and do not require removal. It takes approximately 3mths for them to dissolve. Steristrips and Opsite (paper strips and a clear plastic film) may have been placed over your wound. This dressing can get wet in the shower, and should stay in place until your next visit to the clinic. If the dressing should lift off, or require changing due to a large collection of fluid or leakage within the first 24hrs, please contact the clinic for further instruction.
CONTACT THE CLINIC IF THE DRESSING REQUIRES CHANGING IN THE FIRST 24 HOURS
CLEANING THE WOUND
- If however, after 48hrs, the opsite dressing should lift or leak, please clean the wound and
- Wash the wound in the shower with soap and water and pat the wound dry.
- Wipe either side of the scar line with the ConvaCare protective barrier wipe allowing approximately 30seconds for it to dry on your skin and feel sticky.
- Cut the steristrips in half and apply them across the scar line. They should stick well due to the protective barrier wipe.
- To apply the strips place the strip on one side of the scar line and pull it firmly across to the other side. This pinches the skin together which provides the wound with added support.
- The Opsite clear film may now be applied. Cut the length of opsite required and apply as shown by the nurse at the clinic. If you feel unsure about what to do, do not hesitate to ring the clinic for further instruction.
MEDICATIONS
- If you have been placed on an antibiotic, take as directed by your doctor.
- If you were advised to stop taking any medications or vitamin therapy prior to surgery, you may recommence these 48hrs after the operation.
- For pain relief, Panadol (Panamax/Paracetamol) or if necessary Panadiene, should provide relief. If taking Panadiene, have something light to eat or a glass of milk before consumption to prevent nausea.
- Do not use any Asprin or Disprin based medications (including Ibuprofen or Nurofen) for pain relief for the first 48hrs after surgery, as these will thin your blood and make your wound bleed more easily.
QUERIES
If you have any concerns, please ring the Skin & Cancer Foundation on Monday through to Friday between the hours of 8am and 5pm on (02) 88 333 000. If it is the weekend, or you cannot return to the clinic and you think there is a problem with your wound, such as an infection, please do the following:
- Go to the GP.
- If started on antibiotics, ask to have a wound swab with a copy of the results sent to the Skin & Cancer Foundation Australia.
- Please ring and inform us of your visit to the GP so we can document this in your file.
- Signs of Infection are redness, tenderness, hot to touch and pus.