Types of Bandages and How to Use Them

Adhesive Bandages

Most common form of bandages and is found in every first aid kit or medicine cabinet. They come in many shapes as well as sizes from a small .25" dot to a large 4" x 5" rectangle. They also come in an assortment of materials and colors, from beige fabrics to glittery plastic. These are for everyday paper cuts to accidental scrapes.

Tubular Finger and Toe Bandages

These are specially shaped bandages which are designed to fit over fingers, toes or other extremities that regular bandages can not. Tubular bandages are made in quite a few materials, from the usual beige fabrics to clear gel tubes. Some are washable and even reusable. While others release mineral oils to soften and moisturize skin. They are not necessarily for cuts or bleeding, but can offer cushion and absorb pressure from painful corns, ingrown nails and blisters among other irritants.

Gauze and Dressings

Just as there are a dozen types of bandages, there are an abundance of gauze and dressings. They come in liquid form, gel pads, cotton rolls, powdered collagen or even foam adhesives. Some come impregnated with ointments and oils to nourish or soothe. The dressing is meant to protect the cells and tissue in the affected area from germs, bacteria and general nastiness. The dressing is also in place to absorb excess fluids.

Tapes, Rolls and Wraps

Offered in a wide range of materials in addition to a multitude of colors, rolls are meant to hold gauze, dressings, as well as cold packs in place. Perfect for awkward places where regular adhesive bandages can not go, like the head or elbows and ankles. Tapes can also offer support, depending on how tightly the roll is wrapped around the affected limb. They help to immobilize and hasten healing time. Wraps are great for providing cushion or to alleviate pressure on painful tendons.

BONUS:

Specialty scissors are made for cutting through tape and bandage material with ease, since some wraps have tough adhesive or are too thick for normal scissors to easily go through.

Sprays are also available to help secure tapes and wraps, in order to reduce friction or help prevent blisters and chafing.