Remove wound closure materials from individuals

This standard covers removing wound closure materials from individuals. It is applicable in a variety of care settings including hospitals, care homes, the individuals own home or other community settings such as GP surgeries.

This standard involves removing and disposing of wound closure materials using an aseptic technique and following organisational guidelines and procedures, as and when directed by a relevant practitioner.

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1. access and accurately interpret all relevant work instructions and information
2. work safely at all times and in accordance with all relevant legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols
3. deal promptly and effectively with any problems within your control and report those which cannot be solved
4. identify and minimise hazards and risk in the workplace
5. communicate with the individual and key people at a pace, in a manner and at a level appropriate to the individual's understanding, preferences and needs
6. respect the individual's rights and wishes relating to their consent, privacy, beliefs, and dignity
7. provide support to the individual and ensure health and safety measures are implemented at all times
8. check the individual's identity and confirm the planned activity
9. gain valid, informed consent from the individual in accordance with specific procedures
10. confirm all equipment and materials are appropriate to the method of removal of wound closure material and fit for purpose
11. confirm the absence of contra-indications to removing wound closure material

12. carry out removal of the wound closure material:

    • causing the individual minimal distress, discomfort or pain
    • at an appropriate time according to the individual's plan of care
    • following the agreed procedure
    • using the correct technique
      

13. stop the activity, reassure the individual and seek advice without delay if you have any problems in removing the wound closure material

14. ensure all wound closure material had been completely removed
15. dispose of waste in accordance with organisational procedures
16. complete and store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

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1. the current legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols which are relevant to your work practice and to which you must adhere
2. the scope and limitations of your own competence, responsibilities and accountability as it applies to your job role
3. how to access and interpret all relevant work instructions and information
4. specific procedures for reporting issues which are beyond your competence, responsibilities and accountability
5. the duty to report any acts or omissions that could be unsafe/detrimental to you or others
6. the hazards and risks which may arise during the execution of your work role and how you can minimise these
7. how to adapt communication styles in ways which are appropriate to the needs of the individual  
8. the correct use of any equipment and PPE to protect the health and safety of you and others
9. the principles, practice and procedures associated with informed consent
10. the needs of individuals including issues relating to dignity, confidentiality, and privacy
11. organisational management structures, roles, and responsibilities
12. the importance of applying standard precautions to removing wound closure materials from individuals and the potential consequences of poor practice
13. why individuals should be supported and informed about the nature of the of the activity
14. the concerns and worries which individuals may have in relation to wound closures
15. the adverse reactions which may occur following procedures and how to identify and deal with these
16. the anatomy and physiology of the skin and underlying tissues in relation to the type of wound closure material used and the removal of wound closure material

17. the following regarding wound healing:

    • the process of wound healing
    • factors affecting wound healing
    • potential complications of wound healing
    • cross infection
      

18. the principles and working practices associated with sepsis

19. how aseptic technique contributes to the control of infection
20. potential sources of contamination when undertaking removal of wound closure material and appropriate measures to reduce or deal with them
21. the potential consequences of wound contamination
22. the equipment and materials required for removing wound closure materials
23. why resources should be prepared before you start the activity
24. the importance of following the procedure exactly as it is specified, and the potential effects of not doing so
25. the importance of packing away used equipment and soiled dressings prior to leaving the immediate care area
26. how to dispose of waste in accordance with organisational procedures
27. how to complete and safely store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

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2

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2026

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Current

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Original

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Skills for Health

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SFHCHS14

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Health and Social Care, Health and Social Services Officers, Health Associate Professionals, Health Professionals, Health, Public Services and Care, Healthcare and Related Personal Services

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2259

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Remove, wound, closure, materials

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