Yes, surprisingly, water can be good for stitches, especially when used for cleansing.
Tap Water vs. Sterile Saline for Wound Cleansing
A recent study has shown that tap water can be more beneficial than sterile saline for cleaning sutured wounds. Here’s a breakdown of the key findings:
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Reduced Infection Risk: The study found that using tap water to irrigate acute soft tissue wounds that were sutured reduced the relative risk of infection by 45% compared to using normal sterile saline.
- The relative risk (RR) of infection was 0.55 when using tap water, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.31–0.97.
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Practical Implications: This suggests that when you need to clean a stitched wound, clean tap water can be an effective and easily accessible option.
Why Tap Water Might Be Beneficial
While sterile saline is often considered the standard for wound care, the study suggests that clean tap water can be a practical and safe alternative because:
- Accessibility: Tap water is readily available and convenient.
- Cost-Effective: It's a less expensive option than sterile saline.
- Effectiveness: The study shows that it can reduce the risk of infection.
How To Clean Sutures with Tap Water
While tap water can be helpful, it's important to use it correctly:
- Clean Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your stitches.
- Use Clean Water: Ensure that the tap water you use is clean and safe.
- Gentle Irrigation: Gently pour the tap water over the stitched area to remove any debris. Avoid scrubbing or being too harsh.
- Pat Dry: After cleansing, gently pat the area dry with a clean, soft cloth.
- Follow Healthcare Provider's Instructions: Always follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding wound care.
Conclusion
Based on the study, tap water can be a beneficial option for cleaning sutured wounds due to its ability to reduce infection risk. However, you should always follow your healthcare provider's advice.
