Full course description
Suturing is a core procedural skill across clinical disciplines, requiring knowledge of wound assessment, appropriate closure techniques, and safe instrument handling. This session will review indications and contraindications for wound closure, selection of suture materials, and principles of tension-free approximation. Organized by common suture techniques (including simple interrupted, running, vertical/horizontal mattress, and subcuticular closure), the course will incorporate step-by-step demonstrations and discussion of clinical scenarios. Participants will have extensive hands-on practice using simulation models, receiving real-time guidance and feedback from instructors to promote skill acquisition and procedural confidence.
Learning objectives
By the end of this session, you should be able to:
- Describe indications and contraindications for wound closure
- Select appropriate suture materials, needles, and instruments based on wound characteristics
- Demonstrate proper technique for common suture patterns (e.g., simple interrupted, running, mattress techniques, subcuticular)
- Apply principles of wound-edge eversion, tension management, and infection prevention
- Describe possible complications associated with wound repair, including the identification of higher risk closures
- Provide clear patient education on wound care follow-up and suture removal
Goals/purpose
The intended course outcomes for this session are to certify that participants:
- Have been present and actively engaged throughout the synchronous teaching
- Participated in hands-on practice of multiple suturing techniques on simulation models
- Demonstrated receptiveness to feedback and modified technique through deliberate practice
- Applied proper hand positioning, instrument handling, and needle-driving mechanics repeatedly
This session is designed to teach foundational procedural skills but is not intended to deem any participant “competent” in independent suturing, as that determination remains with supervisors and institutional protocols.
Course date Friday May 1st (time and location TBD). Course director will send follow up email after registration. Please email Debby Farkas (farkasdr@pitt.edu) with any questions or concerns.