Pressure bandage on stitches: what to know

After wound suturing, a dressing and gentle pressure can absorb oozing, reduce movement of the wound edges and shield the area from dirt. The bandage should feel secure rather than painfully tight. Fingers or toes beyond the dressing should remain warm and their usual colour. The clinician may give different instructions depending on the wound’s location, depth, contamination and type of suture.

Follow the discharge instructions about when to remove or change the bandage. Keep it clean and dry unless you were told to wash the wound. Do not pull at stitches, apply creams or soak the area without advice. If the dressing becomes wet, dirty, loose or soaked with blood, contact the treating service for specific instructions. Elevating an injured limb can help limit throbbing and swelling.

Get urgent help if bleeding continues through firm direct pressure, the wound opens, or pain and swelling become severe. Prompt review is needed for spreading redness, pus, fever, worsening warmth, numbness, pale or blue skin, or cold fingers or toes. A tight bandage can affect circulation, so loosen it only as instructed or seek urgent advice if circulation seems reduced.

Ask when the pressure bandage should come off, how to clean the wound, which activities to avoid, and when stitches need removal. Check whether you need a tetanus vaccination and which changes should trigger a review.