- 1). Review your doctor's instructions for wound care. If you have had surgery or another minor procedure, follow all your doctor's instructions for caring for your wound.
- 2). Prevent your wound and Steri Strips from getting wet. Do not take baths. When you shower, cover the wound with plastic wrap or a plastic bag to keep your strips, stitches and wound as dry as possible. Wetness under the Steri Strips can lead to an increased risk of infection.
- 3). Check the wound often for redness, odor or other signs of infection. Steri Strips assist in closing the wound, but they do not prevent infection. Wounds can become infected for a variety of reasons. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor immediately.
- 4). Steri Strips may fall off the skin after 10 days. Leave the Steri Strips in place until they fall off on their own accord or until your doctor determines it is appropriate to remove them. If the wound has healed and your doctor says you can remove the strips, use lotion or a small amount of water to loosen them from your skin.
- 5). Attend all follow-up appointments, even if your wound appears healed and the strips have come off.
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