How to Tie Knots for a Bandage

The best knot to use when tying a bandage is a square knot. Square knots lie flat and do not bring additional injury or discomfort to the person who is in need of the bandage. You should use a bandage when applying pressure to a wound that is bleeding or when covering a wound or burn to prevent infection. Square knots are the easiest to adjust to the comfort level of the recipient. The knot should be snug but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.

Things You'll Need

• Protective gloves
• Gauze or bandages
• Antiseptic
• Pins, clips, or gauze tape
• Scissors

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Choose the appropriate bandage width for the area of the body you are trying to cover. Recommended widths are 1/2 inch for a finger, 1 inch for a hand, and 2 inches for a leg. Test the bandage by making sure it covers the wound completely.

• 2

  Estimate the amount of bandage you will need to secure the wound. Apply the compress or gauze to cover the wound before you tie your knot. Thoroughly wrap the area to cover the wound or stop the bleeding. Take the knotting bandage and wrap it around the area once. Use that measurement and cut the bandage. Add an additional 3 inches that you can cut later if needed.

• 3

  Pass the right end of the bandage over the left end of the bandage and tuck it securely under the bandage. Bring both sides together and pass the right end over the left end of the bandage again. Pull both ends firmly until they are secure to complete the knot.

• 4

  Secure the knot by tying it in a bow or affixing a fastener to keep the knot in place. Types of fasteners include pins, tape or clips. Choose a method to secure the knot that will bring minimal discomfort to the person needing the bandage. The knot should be placed over the compress in the area where the bleeding needs to stop or where the wound is to be stabilized.