Bandages are an essential part of any first-aid kit. For every first-aider, knowing which bandages to use and the right way to do so are a quintessential part of dealing with everyday accidents and injuries.
We first assess the situation to determine the extent of the casualty’s injuries. Is it an open wound? A dislocated shoulder? Or a head injury? Once there is a better understanding of their wounds and how major each one is, we can then proceed with treating the wounds.
1. Does the wound need dressing?
If there is an open wound, a dressing will need to be applied. A dressing will mainly help to stem the bleeding from the wound and absorb exudate. It will also prevent infections as the wound heals.
Sterile wound dressings are usually found in most first aid kits. Their sole purpose is to protect the wound during the healing process, hence they will usually be packed in a sterile packet and must be opened carefully by a person with clean or gloved hands.
Sterile non-adhesent dressings are used for extensive surface wounds such as abrasions or burns. They help to prevent further injuries to the wound and allow for it to breathe while healing. Most dressings will have a special coating to allow for fluids to pass through into an absorbent layer, keeping the wound dry.
Now that the dressing has been picked, a bandage must be chosen to hold the dressings in place and aid in the healing process.
2. What type of bandage to use?
A bandage is typically used when there is:
a dressing to hold in place,
as a secondary layer when putting pressure on a bleeding wound, or
to support an injured limb
Determining the right type of bandage to use is crucial as it will affect the healing process of the wound. Roller bandages are the most common ones found in first-aid kits, being versatile enough for a variety of situations.
Roller bandages act as a protective barrier for the wound without sticking directly on it. In an open wound, start by applying a suitable pad or dressing to the injury site.
Take the bandage while holding the rolled end up and wrap it gently around the pad. Start from the bottom and work up. Secure the bandage with a safety pin or adhesive tape.
For joint injuries, head injuries or even injuries requiring a splint, the triangular bandage is the most versatile option. It comes as a right-angle triangle and can be folded as needed.
Securing a triangular bandage can be done by tying a reef knot, ensuring a flat knot that will not slip undone and will be comfortable for the patient. Untying it is simple; choose two paired ends as they come out of the knot at one side. Then pull the ends apart steadily until two loops form and can be slipped off one end.
With the right dressing and bandages in hand, it’s time to secure the wound.
3. Securing the wound
Steps
Dress the wound
Wash hands thoroughly, and put on sterile gloves.
Clean the wound with mild soap and water. Apply a small layer of antiseptic cream or solution if needed.
Place a clean dressing over the entire wound.
If blood soaks through the dressing, place another dressing over the first one.
Cover the wound with a bandage
Wrap the bandage over the dressing and around the wound several times.
Extend the bandage at least an inch beyond both sides of the dressing.
Tie or tape the bandage in place.
Check circulation
Check circulation in the area below the bandage after several minutes and again after several hours. Signs of poor circulation include numbness, tingling or cold skin. The skin may also look pale or blue.
If circulation is reduced, loosen the bandage right away.
By better understanding the uses of bandages and how we can apply them in real life, we can be prepared for emergencies and act quickly to support any casualties.
For more information on treating injuries and other emergencies, consider joining our Standard First Aid course. The course provides an in-depth approach to performing critical emergency interventions while equipping participants with the practical and theoretical skills to perform effective CPR and AED on adult victims.