Physician Assistant how-to

How to Close a Laceration with Sutures

Good technique reduces infection and scarring.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good technique reduces infection and scarring. In short: assess; clean; numb, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Assess the wound and check nerves and tendons.

  2. Clean and irrigate.

  3. Numb with local anesthetic.

  4. Place sutures with even spacing.

  5. Apply a dressing.

  6. Explain wound care and removal timing.

Safety reminders for physician assistants

  • Follow infection control and sharps safety
  • Verify patient identity and allergies
  • Use safe prescribing practices
  • Escalate concerns to the collaborating physician

PANCE · PA-C · Differential diagnosis · Chief complaint · HPI · SOAP note: see the full physician assistant glossary.

More physician assistant how-to guides

Learn this in Physician Assistant trainingTake the practice test
Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz