How to Care For Steri-Strips: Step-by-Step Instructions
Steri-Strips, thin adhesive bands used by surgeons to cover dissolvable stitches after removal, are often used as a backup or after regular stitches are removed.
You can also purchase them in your local pharmacy for self-care. They can be used to close small cuts and wounds. However, it is important to seek medical attention for more serious injuries.
When they are thin in their middle, Steri-Strips can also be called Butterfly stitches or butterfly bandages and have two large, sticky areas at either end. They look like the wings of a butterfly. However, not all Steri Strips look this way. These are the most common type used by surgeons. They are thin, straight strips.
This article will help you understand how to care for Steri-Strips and how to apply or remove them.
When can Steri-Strips be used?
Steri-Strips can be used to treat minor injuries or cuts.
They seal wounds by pulling the skin sides together but not touching the wound. This decreases the risk of bacteria and other substances being introduced to the cut.
Because they are not sewn into the skin, Steri-Strips can be removed easily after the wound heals.
The following questions should be asked when deciding whether or not to use Steri-Strips for closing a wound:
- Do the wound edges have straight edges? The best choice for cuts with straight edges is
- Is the bleeding manageable and light? You can apply pressure to the cut with a sterile towel for at least five minutes. If the cut continues to bleed after five minutes, don’t use Steri-Strips.
- A wound that is less than 1/2 inch long. Steri Strips are not recommended for cuts of 1/2 inch or more.
- Are you in an area that doesn’t move much? Steri Strips might be unable to work on joints or other areas that may have difficulty staying in place.
How to Apply
Steri-Strips are typically applied by your surgeon or doctor after surgery or treatment for the injury. If you cannot get medical attention immediately, you might need to apply them at home.
Steps for applying a Steri Strip
- Use warm water and mild, unscented soap to wash your hands.
- To get rid of bacteria or dirt, wash the wound. Use cool, soapy water.
- Use a towel or a clean cloth to dry the area.
- Gently push the wounds together with your fingers.
- Place each half of the Steri-Strip on the cuts so it can hold the wound together. To close the wound, start with one side and move the other half to the right. The second half of the Steri-Strip should be applied to the opposite side of the wound. It should not be applied in the same direction that the cut.
- These steps can be repeated for as many Steri-Strips as you need to close the wound. Each Steri Strip should be approximately 1/8 inch from the next.
- To help keep the edges of each Steri-Strips from sticking, wrap another bandage around the wound.
How to Care for Steri Strips
It is important to care for a Steri-Strip once it has been applied to a cut.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Make sure that the wound and surrounding skin are clean.
- DO ensure that the Steri Strip area is dry for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours. Take extra care when you are bathing or taking a shower.
- Do trim any loose edges of Steri-Strip. This can be done with a pair of scissors.
- DO Inspect the wound daily to ensure there are no signs of infection.
- DO NOT pull on the ends of a Steri-Strip. This could cause the wounds to reopen.
- Do not rub, pick or pick at the area. This could spread bacteria or cause the wound to reopen.