To bandage a wound during first aid, you'll also need something to cover it with - a clean cloth that prevents the spread of bacteria that would cause an infection. Gauze is fine for this purpose. While you can find various types in medicine cabinets and first aid kits, you can also make it from something clean that is suitable for closing the wound.
Steps
Step 1. Clean the wound
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Use all the salt you need. You can also clean the wound by rinsing the exposed area with water or gently blotting it with a clean, lint-free cloth. If the wound is bleeding, it may be best to wait for it to stop because the blood itself will clean it.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 1 -
Apply pressure to stop the blood. Use a clean, lint-free cloth, paper towel, or something clean to put between your hands and the wound to avoid introducing bacteria.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 2 -
Apply an antibacterial ointment, if available, on top of the bandage or whatever cleansed you are going to put on the wound. This will not only help prevent infection but will prevent the bandage from sticking to the wound. If a tissue adheres, the wound may start bleeding again once it is removed.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 3 -
Fold or cut the gauze so that it only covers the injured area. If you use the medical patch to hold it in place, you will need a few more inches of tissue on each side so that the patch does not rest directly on the injured area. Be careful not to touch the part of the gauze that will come into contact with the wound to avoid infection.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 4
Step 2. Stop the gauze
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Use medical patches to stick the fabric to the skin on all sides. Be careful not to use wrapping tape, for example, which could tear the skin when removed.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 5 -
Wrap a strip of fabric around the injured limb, fully encompassing the gauze. Tie the ends to the bandage. Make sure not to wrap it too tightly so as not to damage the circulation not only of the area around the wound, but of the whole body.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 6 -
Secure the bandage with a safety pin, medical metal hook, or tape.
Bandage a Wound During First Aid Step 7
Step 3. Place a layer of plastic on top of the bandage if there is a possibility that the wound could get wet
Advice
- Check what the injured person is wearing and remove rings, watches, or anything else that could damage circulation if the wound swells.
- Some wounds should not be bandaged. If it is minor and in a position where it is unlikely to get wet, dirty or irritated and if the edges close on their own, it is often best to leave it alone. If the edges don't come together you can use an adhesive bandage to pull them together. If you decide to apply a covering bandage or bandage, remove it when you can to allow the wound to dry.
