They may be needed after accidents with staplers (8)
I believe the answer is:
plasters
'they' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'be needed after accidents with staplers' is the wordplay.
'staplers' anagrams to 'PLASTERS'.
Though, I'm not clear how this is indicated.
'may' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for plasters that I've seen before include "Covers a wall - with protection for cuts?" , "Places a smooth surface on a wall" , "Coats a wall with coverings for cuts?" .)