Surgical Staples Removal

Surgical Staples Removal Policy 

Goal 

To safely remove surgical staples from wounds. 

Equipment 

• Gloves 

• Sterile Staple Remover 

• Plastic Bag 

• 4x4 Gauze 

Procedure 

10. Preparation: 

• Obtain an order from the M.D. 

• Administer analgesia as ordered, if necessary. 

11. Setup: 

• Open the package containing the sterile staple remover. 

• Gather all necessary equipment and place it within reach. 

12. Removal: 

• Wash hands thoroughly and put on gloves. 

• Slide the double-edged bottom part of the staple remover under the staple. 

• Depress the top half of the remover as though you are using scissors. The staple edges will pop up, and the staple will fall out. 

• Count the number of staples removed. 

13. If Difficulty Arises: 

• If a staple cannot be removed easily, stop the procedure immediately and notify the M.D. 

14. Post-Removal: 

• Remove the rest of the staples using the staple remover. 

• Cleanse the area per the M.D.’s order and apply steristrips as needed. 

15. Disposal: 

• Dispose of equipment and staples in the proper receptacle, such as a sharps container. 

Documentation 

• Document the outcome of the procedure, including the number of staples removed and how the resident tolerated the procedure in the narrative nurse’s notes. 

• Include any observations or complications encountered during the procedure. 

References 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Requirements of Participation for Long-Term Care Facilities. 

• State Operations Manual (SOM), CMS.