About Tape, Gauze, and Dressings
What to Know About Tape, Gauze, and Dressings
Tapes, gauzes, and dressings are used to treat and manage wounds like pressure ulcers (bed sores), damaged skin, or other injury-cased wounds. These products cover wounds to keep them clean and free from infection. Dressings also keep the wound moist, which promotes healing. Tapes, gauzes, and dressings protect wounds from further injury, as well as reduce pain and discomfort associated with that wound.
FAQ's
What are dressings and bandages used for?
A dressing is a sterile pad or compress that is used to cover a wound and protect it from infection, while a bandage is a strip of material that is used to hold a dressing in place.
What is gauze used for in first aid?
Gauze can be used to clean wounds and to apply pressure to a wound. Gauze bandaging can hold a dressing in place. Most gauzes are also semi-absorbent and can absorb wound drainage.
How do I apply gauze bandaging?
Cut the gauze to the desired size using scissors and place the center of the gauze over the wound. Wrap the gauze around the wound, making sure to not wrap it too tightly. Tie the ends of the gauze together.
What is first aid care for wounds?
Wound care is the process of cleaning, protecting, and treating a wound. It is important to clean a wound as soon as possible to prevent infection. To clean a wound, use a mild soap and warm water. Gently clean the wound and remove any dirt, debris, or dead tissue.
Once the wound is clean, it is important to protect it from further injury. You can do this by covering the wound with a sterile bandage. Be sure to change the bandage regularly.
If the wound is more than a few days old, it is important to treat it to promote healing. This can be done by applying a topical antibiotic ointment to the wound. You can also use wound dressings to keep the wound moist and protected.
See a doctor if you have a wound that is deep or is not healing.