Caring for Stitched Wounds
I’m uncertain if this is the appropriate forum for my inquiries, so please provide guidance. Recently, I (age 24) underwent a biopsy on a spot located on my nose, and I now have stitches. For the past four days, I’ve been applying a circular bandage to the area, altering it nearly every day. However, I’m now questioning whether it would be acceptable to remove the bandage until my stitches are scheduled to come out in three days. I was advised to apply Stratamed a few times daily to maintain moisture at the site, and that’s my intention moving forward. Thus, my questions are: Is it preferable to keep the wound covered with a bandage, or is it safe to expose it to the air? Furthermore, should I be incorporating an antiseptic like Betadine along with the Stratamed?
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 12:20:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're reaching out for guidance on caring for your stitched wound. Managing your healing process effectively is essential for minimizing the risk of infection and ensuring proper recovery.
Main Points:
- Keeping the Wound Protected: It's generally best to keep the stitches covered to prevent irritation and infection.
- Moisture and Healing: Continue using Stratamed as directed, which helps maintain a moist environment conducive to healing.
- Antiseptics: Adding antiseptics like Betadine may not be necessary and can sometimes irritate the wound.
Explanation:
Stitches are designed to hold the skin together while it heals. Keeping the area covered with a bandage helps protect it from dirt and bacteria, reducing the possibility of infection. Since you've been advised to use Stratamed, continuing this will support moisture retention, which is beneficial for healing.
It's also important to allow the wound to breathe occasionally, but this should be done carefully and not expose it to potential irritants. If the bandage is causing discomfort or if you find it keeps getting wet or dirty, you could switch to a less adhesive covering or leave it without a bandage for short periods of time, ensuring to monitor the site closely for signs of irritation or infection.
Next Steps:
- Leave the Wound Covered: Continue to cover the wound with a bandage for the next three days until your stitches are to be removed, especially when you're outdoors or exposed to potential irritants.
- Use Stratamed: Apply Stratamed as directed to keep the area moisturized and promote healing.
- Avoid Additional Antiseptics: Do not apply Betadine unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider, as it may interfere with the healing process and irritate the skin.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for any signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If you notice these, it's important to seek further guidance.
Please remember to follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider, as they're tailored to your individual situation. If you have any more questions or concerns, feel free to ask!
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