Some medical professionals suggest that you can use Dermabond on the scalp. However, if you do, you must be very careful not to let it run through into the rest of the hair. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source
For instance, if the cut is near the outside of the right eye, tilt the patient’s head that direction, so the glue flows away from the eye. Another option is to soak a piece of gauze in saline and place it between the eye and the wound.
You can introduce bacteria to the wound if you’re not careful, as well as be exposed to contaminants from the wound. Keep a box of gloves nearby in case you need to switch them out while you’re using the glue. You may also want to consider wearing safety glasses to prevent biohazardous materials or any of the glue from getting in your eyes while you open and apply the product.
Typically, 5-0 sutures are used on limb wounds. Sutures get smaller in size the larger the USP size. For instance, a 4-0 suture is bigger than a 5-0 suture. The 6-0 and 7-0 sutures are smaller than a 5-0 suture, and they are used for smaller cuts on the hands, face, and nail beds, for instance.
Do not use Dermabond on a wound that is infected or contaminated, as it can make the problem worse.
Apply the gel or cream to the area using sterile gauze. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Use a 10 cc or 20 cc sterile syringe with a splash cover to apply the saline to the wound. If needed, you can remove debris at this point with a fine (small) pair of sterilized forceps. [10] X Research source
Moisture on the wound can also stop up the applicator, making it more difficult to apply.
While you’re squeezing, do not point the glue at the patient. Keep it away from the patient and point it at the floor. After squeezing, release the pressure.
If you crush the tube too hard, you can push pieces of glass through the sides, injuring yourself. Shake the tube gently to encourage the glue to flow downwards.
Adson forceps are small forceps often used to suture the skin. Use ones with teeth, as they provide more grip.
Wipe up any excess glue immediately using sterile gauze. Be careful when applying the glue, as it can stick almost anything to the skin. For instance, it will adhere your gloves or the forceps to the skin if you’re not careful.
There are 2 types of Dermabond, Dermabond Adhesive and Dermabond Advanced Adhesive. If you have the advanced formula, you should only apply 1 layer. When applying Dermabond Adhesive, thin layers are better because a thick layer can heat up, causing the patient discomfort. [15] X Research source You can also apply a third layer this way. Hold the skin in place for another 180 seconds.
The glue will be fully set in 95-3 minutes seconds for Dermabond Advanced or in 3 minutes for Dermabond Adhesive. It may take up to 5 minutes for the wound to not feel sticky. [16] X Research source If you are worried the wound might open again, you can apply surgical tape or a butterfly bandage over the wound once it dries completely. [17] X Research source
For this reason, it’s important to make sure you thoroughly clean the wound before applying Dermabond since you can’t apply an antibacterial cream afterwards.
Do not try to pull the skin apart. Do not apply acetone in the area immediately around the wound, as this could cause a burning sensation.
