Emergency Bandage Procedures

Standard bandages are made up of gauze, muslin, or other cloth fabric. They are used to secure a sterile dressing in place, keep dirt and germs out of the wound, and to apply pressure to the wound and control bleeding. Bandages are also used to secure a splint or support an injured limb. In an emergency, select the proper type of bandage and use the proper procedures to apply it to stop bleeding and reduce the risk of infection.

Common Bandage Types

• There are three common types of bandages: roller, tubular, and triangular. Roller bandages can be made of gauze, cotton, or an elastic fabric, and are used to secure dressings and support injured joints. Tubular bandages are made of seamless tubular fabric, and are used to hold dressings on fingers and toes or provide support to an injured joint. Triangular bandages can be folded into a triangle shape, and are used to secure a dressing in place or as a sling to support an injured joint. In an emergency, select the appropriate type of bandage based on the area of the injury.

Preparing the Wound

• Before bandages can be applied to the wound, try to stop the bleeding. Use medical gloves or thick cloth, a plastic bag, or any other clean material that separates your hands from direct contact with the wound. Then remove any clothing or jewelry surrounding the wound. Apply direct pressure to the wound for 15 minutes. If there is an object in the wound, only apply pressure around the wound, not directly on it.

  Once the bleeding has stopped, rinse the wound for 5 to 10 minutes. Make sure your hands are clean, and use gloves to remove any dirt or debris from the wound using clean tweezers. Use tap water or lukewarm water and mild soap to remove any remaining debris or bacteria. Use a washcloth to gently scrub the wound until it's clean. More serious wounds may require stitches or antibiotics.

Bandaging the Wound

• As you are bandaging the wound, make sure the injured person is comfortable and knows exactly what you are doing. Work on the side of the wound and work across the body. Before you apply the bandage, make sure the injured limb is in the proper position. Also, use the right size bandage for the wound.

  The bandage should be applied firmly, but not tightly. Then secure the end of the bandage by folding it over and either tying a knot, using a safety pin, adhesive tape, or bandage clip to hold it in place. Finally, check that the bandage is not too tight, and that circulation is getting to the wound. Since there is a risk of limb distention after an injury, check the circulation every 10 minutes after the bandage has been put on.