Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the stitches
Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions first
Clean the area gently with mild soap and water if allowed
Use a clean, damp cloth or gauze to wipe around the stitches
Do not scrub the stitches
Pat the area dry with a clean towel or gauze
Keep the area dry unless told otherwise
Change dressings as directed
Use only ointments or creams approved by your healthcare provider
Do not soak the stitches in a bath, pool, or hot tub
Avoid picking at scabs or stitches
Watch for redness, swelling, pus, bad odor, or increasing pain
Contact a healthcare provider if the wound opens or bleeds heavily