Dressing and Bandaging

A. Dressing
Objectives:
- To cover the wound
- To protect against germs
- To help in the blood clotting process
General Rules for Applying Dressings:
- The dressing pad should be extended well beyond a wound's
edges.
- Dressing should be placed directly onto the wound.
- Dressing should not slide from the side and should not be
replaced at once.
- If there is bleeding that seeps through the dressing, avoid
removing the dressing. Instead, apply another dressing on
top of it.
- If only one sterile dressing is available, use this to cover
the wound and get another clean material as top-dressing.
Types of Dressings:
1. Gauze - These are made from layers of gauze that
form a soft, pliable covering for wounds.
Types of Dressings:
2. Adhesive – Better known as “plasters" they are
useful for small wounds. They consist of a gauge or
cellulose pad attached to an adhesive backing. They
come in various sizes, usually individually wrapped
sterile units. Specially shaped plasters are available
for fingertips, heels, and elbows.
B. Bandaging
Objectives:
- To hold dressing in place
- To control bleeding
- To support and immobilize injuries
- To reduce swelling
Types of Bandaging
1. Triangular Bandage - These are usually made of
cloth. They are used as slings to secure dressings to
immobilize injured limbs.
Types of Bandaging
2. Roller Bandage - These are used to secure
dressings and can give support to limbs.
Types of Bandaging
3. Tubular Bandage – These are used to secure
dressings in digits or support joints. In case of
emergency and there is no specific bandage
available, you may use bandage made out of pieces of
cloth or form them from items of clothing
General Rules for Bandaging
A. Before Applying Bandages
- Explain to the injured what you are going to do and
reassure him.
- Always keep the injured in a comfortable sitting or
lying the position.
- Always work in front of the injured.
General Rules for Bandaging
B. When Applying Bandages
- If the injured is lying down, pass the bandages under
the body's natural hollows at the ankles, knees, small
of back, and neck.
- Bandage should be slid towards the injured part and
eased back and forth.
- In order to control bleeding and to hold dressing in
place, bandages should be firmly applied. Make sure
though that circulation is not impeded.
General Rules for Bandaging
B. When Applying Bandages
- To check on the circulation, the finger and toes of
a bandaged limb should be exposed if possible.
- See to it that the injured is not hurt when securing
knots. Avoid the bony area in doing knots.