Surgical staples hold an incision closed to foster healing. The staples can be used on animals or people. Staples go in quickly and form a strong, neat closure. They're usually made of stainless steel, which is non-allergenic and sterile. The staples should be removed seven to 10 days after insertion. In order to remove staples, you must use a special tool. Use a new or sterilized, packaged staple remover tool for each patient.
Step 1
Wash your hands, dry them and put on a pair of sterile surgical gloves.
Step 2
Swab the incision site with disinfectant.
Step 3
Open the sterile packaging and take out the staple remover. Insert the front edge of the lower jaw of the staple remover under the staple, in the center.
Step 4
Squeeze the handles of the staple remover tool until the tool is fully closed. This should bend the center of the staple, pulling the sides of the staple completely out of the skin.
Step 5
Lift the staple remover, with the staple in its jaws, from the incision. Dispose of the staple in a sharps container.
Tips and Warnings
- Remove every other staple and check that the wound remains closed before you remove the remaining staples.
Things You'll Need
- Surgical gloves
- Swabs
- Disinfectant
- Sharps container
