Overview
Glued wounds
If we have closed your wound with medical glue, please follow these instructions to help your wound heal.
- The glue must stay in place until your wound has healed. This takes 7 days.
- The glue forms part of the scab. Do not pick at the scab or glue, it will gradually come off on its own.
If you have diabetes or diabetic neuropathy (a type of nerve damage), please tell the staff treating you. We can then personalise your treatment.
Looking after your wound
Do
- keep your wound clean and dry
Don't
- do not wash the area or get it wet for 7 days
- do not pick at the scab when the dressing is removed
- do not put a dressing over your wound if it's on your face or head. It's best to leave this type of wound open to the air
Pain relief
You can buy regular painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, from a pharmacy or shop. They should be enough to relieve your pain if you take them regularly by following the instructions on the packet.
It's important to check that the painkillers do not react with any other medicines you take. Ask your pharmacist if you are not sure.
Contact your GP as soon as possible if:
- your wound becomes red or swollen
- your wound becomes very painful
- your wound reopens completely
- there is pus (a thick, yellow liquid) or blood coming from your wound
These are signs of an infection, and you might need treatment.
Resource number: 0139/VER5
Last reviewed: March 2025
Next review due: March 2028
