Bandages

Medical dressing supplies

Accidents happen, and when they do, you need to be ready to provide first aid to the victim. Your first aid kit will be your toolbox for emergencies, and one of the most important things in it is a good set of bandages.

Bandages provide protection and support for a wounded or inflamed limb. The dressing soaks up any blood or pus and can hold on ointment or cream to soothe burns, cuts or swelling. All first aid kits should contain at least three different kinds of bandages. These include gauze pads, roller bandages (such as plaster bandages or elastic bandages) and adhesive bandages.

Gauze pads and plaster bandages are used for wounds that are deeper than a simple cut or scrape. Normally, these wounds will bleed and the gauze helps form a scab in order to stop the bleeding. Adhesive bandages, or Band-Aids, are good for smaller cuts or scrapes. Both kinds of bandages can be medicated with ointment, and some are waterproof or can be painted on to ensure they won’t fall off.

Wound dressing is extremely important. Be sure you use antibiotic ointment (not to be confused with hand sanitizer, which is ineffective in open wounds) to kill germs and prevent infection.

Occasionally you will need bandages to support a sprained or broken limb. Elastic bandages are wrapped around the limb to hold it in place until you can reach a hospital. Splints (bandages wrapped around a metal stick and placed against a limb) can hold a broken limb straight or provide support until a cast can be put on.

If a person is bleeding profusely, you may need to make use of a tourniquet. Tourniquets are elastic bands wrapped tightly around a limb to stop bleeding or, conversely, to raise a vein so that blood can be drawn. Normally, these are used by paramedics or medical staff.

When you are bandaging a victim’s wound or injured limb, always ensure that your hands are clean and that you are using antibiotic or medicated dressings. This will prevent the spread of secondary infection.

Why Are Bandages Essential for Dressing Wounds?

  • Bandages cover the wound and protect it from any bacteria or dirt.
  • They also help stop bleeding and hold on antibiotic ointment, speeding the healing process.

Things to Consider When Bandaging a Wound

  • How deep is the cut? This will help you decide what kind of bandage to use
  • Is the bandage medicated? If not, use antibiotic cream
  • Will the person need further medical attention?

Top Bandage Brands

  • Band-Aid bandages
  • Ace bandages