Steri Strips: How to Apply, Care For, Remove

Steri Strips: How to Apply, Care For, Remove

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Steri-Strips are thin adhesive bandages often used by surgeons as a backup to dissolvable stitches or after regular stitches are removed. They have become popular for self-care, readily available in local pharmacies. These strips can be used to close shallow wounds or cuts; however, professional medical attention is recommended for more serious injuries.

Steri-Strips, also known as butterfly stitches or butterfly bandages, come in various shapes and sizes. The most familiar type resembles butterfly wings with a thin middle section and wide, sticky edges, while others are straight, thin strips commonly used by surgeons.

If you're not sure how to take care of Steri-Strips, or how to apply them or remove them, this guide will walk you through all the important details you need to know.

When are Steri-Strips used?

Steri-Strips are typically used for minor cuts, small wounds, or as part of minor surgeries. They help seal wounds by closing the skin edges without direct contact with the wound itself, reducing the risk of infection.

Steri-Strips can sometimes be a better option than traditional stitches because they don’t require suturing in the skin and can be more conveniently removed once healing occurs. When considering whether to use Steri-Strips, ask yourself the following questions:

• Are the edges of the wound straight? Steri-Strips are most effective on shallow, straight-edged cuts.
• Is the bleeding light and controllable? Apply pressure with a sterile cloth for at least 5 minutes. Avoid using Steri-Strips if bleeding continues after this time.
• Is the wound less than half an inch in length? For cuts longer than half an inch, Steri-Strips are not recommended.
• Is the wound in a low-movement area? Steri-Strips may not adhere well to joints or areas with frequent movement.

How to apply

Typically, your doctor or surgeon will apply Steri-Strips following surgery or injury treatment. If immediate medical care isn't an option, you may need to apply Steri-Strips at home.

Steps to applying a Steri-Strip

1. Thoroughly wash your hands with warm water and gentle, unscented soap. Clean hands help prevent infection.
2. Rinse the wound to remove debris and bacteria, using cool, clean water and mild soap.
3. Pat the area dry using a clean cloth or towel, ensuring there's no moisture around the wound.
4. Gently press the wound edges together with your fingers.
5. Apply each half of the Steri-Strip over the wound edges, pulling them together. Secure one half first, then pull the strip across the wound to the other side. Avoid placing it parallel to the cut.
6. Repeat as necessary, placing each strip about 1/8 inch apart to fully close the wound.
7. Secure the ends of the Steri-Strips with another bandage to keep edges from lifting.

How to care for Steri-Strips

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Do’s and Don’ts

• DO ensure the wound and surrounding skin stay clean.
• DO keep the Steri-Strip area dry for at least 24 to 48 hours, exercising caution when bathing or showering.
• DO trim away loose Steri-Strip edges with scissors.
• DO check the wound daily for signs of infection.
• DON’T tug on loose Steri-Strip ends to avoid reopening the wound.
• DON’T rub or pick at the Steri-Strip area, which could introduce bacteria or reopen the wound.

How to remove

If a doctor or surgeon applied your Steri-Strips, you can wait for them to naturally fall off. If you applied them yourself and the wound has healed, follow these steps to safely remove them:

Steps to removing a Steri-Strip

1. Prepare a solution using equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide.
2. Soak the Steri-Strip area in the solution to loosen the adhesive.
3. Gently peel the Steri-Strip off. Avoid pulling too hard if it resists, as this can tear the skin or reopen the wound.

When to seek medical care

Seek immediate medical attention if a wound:

• doesn’t stop bleeding after applying pressure for 10 minutes
• results from contact with an unclean or rusty object
• is too deep or long for Steri-Strip coverage
• causes severe pain
• has embedded dirt you can't clean out
• is in a joint that you can't move, possibly indicating nerve, muscle, or tendon damage

Additionally, monitor the wound closely after applying Steri-Strips. Seek medical attention if the wound:

• won’t stop bleeding
• becomes red, swollen, or pus-filled
• increases in pain

The bottom line

Steri-Strips can effectively serve as a backup or alternative to traditional stitches for less severe wounds. However, correct application and removal are critical, along with attentive care during the healing process. Monitor the wound for any complications and seek medical care if necessary.

For more information, please visit Circular Staples.