Which skin and wound care measure is important after lip repair?

• A. Avoid cleansing instructions to prevent irritation.
• B. Soak wounds.
• C. Clean and dry suture lines, monitor for infection, avoid pressure or trauma to the lip, and follow cleansing instructions.
• D. Apply pressure to the sutures randomly.

Answer: (C)

Postoperative lip repair care centers on protecting the sutures and keeping the wound clean and dry to support proper healing. Cleaning and drying the suture lines, while watching for any signs of infection, helps prevent complications and supports the integrity of the repair. It’s important to avoid applying pressure or trauma to the lip, since the delicate tissue and sutures can be displaced or irritated easily, delaying healing or causing bleeding. Following the cleansing instructions provided by the surgeon ensures the right technique and products are used for this specific surgery and the child’s needs. Soaking wounds should be avoided because moisture can loosen sutures, macerate skin, and increase infection risk. Keeping the area clean, dry, and protected, and reporting any redness, swelling, drainage, or fever promptly, supports a smooth recovery.