Bhakti Paun Sharma
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One of the top five items in the first-aid kit must haves, bandages are easy to use and can be carried with ease. They are effective for small cuts and bruises where covering the wounds is necessary. Read more to know when you should not use a bandage. Dr Chandan Kedawat Sr. Consultant- Internal Medicine at the PSRI Hospital, New Delhi tells us all that we need to know about bandages.
Waterproof vs regular bandages
Before we can figure which of the two varieties is a better option, did you know engineers have designed a bandage that senses temperature and even releases medicine? Coming back to the point, waterproof bandages were a revolution in itself. Women and swimmers must have heaved a sigh of relief when these were introduced, as they do offer some protection from moisture. If you need to use a bandage for relief from a shoe-bite or save your feet from one, regular bandages work just fine. But if you know you are going to dip your hand or the injured area in water in a short while, waterproof is ideal. The results are similar for both; the former just keeps the wound dry longer.
Changing bandages
As a teen I remember not changing my bandage for almost two days if it didn t get soiled or loose. That is not advisable. Every wound dressing needs to be changed regularly. Dr Kedawat suggests it must be changed once a day if the bandage is not exposed to a lot of dirt and dust. However, if it is soiled or stained within a few hours of application, a fresh bandage must be applied.
Common mistakes while using a bandage
Applying bandages can be tricky if you are doing it on your own. Chances are you might touch the medicated strip at the centre while placing it on your wound. This can pass on germs and bacteria from your hand to the wound and infecting it. Avoid touching the inner surface of the bandage. Try and get help if you are unable to apply it correctly. Also, when applying it around your finger, ensure that it is not too tight. This can restrict blood flow or cause damage to the soft cuticles and area around it.
Last but not the least, do not forget to check the expiry date of the bandage.
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