Which describes the correct initial steps when performing sutures on a clean wound?

Which describes the correct initial steps when performing sutures on a clean wound?

• A. Immediately apply antibiotics without cleaning
• B. Clean wound, approximate edges, place suture in appropriate pattern, tie secure knots, cut ends
• C. Use staples instead of needles for suturing
• D. Apply suture to intact skin only

Answer: (B)

The essential sequence for closing a clean wound focuses on preparation and secure tissue alignment. Start by thoroughly cleaning the wound to remove dirt and bacteria, which lowers infection risk and makes a clean edge for healing. Next, approximate the edges so the tissue lines up evenly, reducing gaps and scarring. Then place sutures in a pattern appropriate for the wound and tissue layer, ensuring the chosen technique distributes tension properly and maintains alignment. After that, tie secure knots to hold the edges together with adequate but not excessive tension. Finally, cut the suture ends to an appropriate length to prevent irritation or snagging. Other options don’t fit because antibiotics alone cannot substitute for proper cleaning and mechanical closure, staples describe a different closure method rather than the steps of suturing, and suturing should address a wound rather than intact skin.

The essential sequence for closing a clean wound focuses on preparation and secure tissue alignment. Start by thoroughly cleaning the wound to remove dirt and bacteria, which lowers infection risk and makes a clean edge for healing. Next, approximate the edges so the tissue lines up evenly, reducing gaps and scarring. Then place sutures in a pattern appropriate for the wound and tissue layer, ensuring the chosen technique distributes tension properly and maintains alignment. After that, tie secure knots to hold the edges together with adequate but not excessive tension. Finally, cut the suture ends to an appropriate length to prevent irritation or snagging.

Other options don’t fit because antibiotics alone cannot substitute for proper cleaning and mechanical closure, staples describe a different closure method rather than the steps of suturing, and suturing should address a wound rather than intact skin.