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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 

  1. Preparation: 

  • Obtain an order from the M.D. 

  • Administer analgesia as ordered, if necessary. 

  1. Setup: 

  • Open the package containing the sterile staple remover. 

  • Gather all necessary equipment and place it within reach. 

  1. 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. 

  1. If Difficulty Arises: 

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

  1. 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. 

  1. 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. 

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