A bandage is a piece of material used to protect and secure an injured part of the body or to support a medical device. While often confused with a dressing, which contacts the wound directly, the bandage’s primary role is usually to hold that dressing in place or to provide mechanical support. Bandages are manufactured from numerous materials, including woven fabrics, elastic fibers, and specialized polymers, selected to serve specific functions in injury management.
Essential Functions of Bandaging
Bandaging serves several distinct purposes in injury management. The first function is to provide a protective barrier against external contamination. This barrier shields the injury from environmental dirt, debris, and pathogenic microorganisms, which reduces the risk of infection.
Another function is securing a sterile dressing or pad directly over the wound site. By holding the dressing firmly, the bandage ensures continuous contact for absorption of exudate and maintains the integrity of the sterile field. This retention role prevents the dislodgement of the primary wound contact layer.
Bandages are also used to apply localized pressure. Applying direct force helps control external bleeding until coagulation is achieved. Controlled compression can also be used to manage swelling by reducing the accumulation of fluid in the soft tissues surrounding an injury.
Common Wound Care Bandages
The most frequently encountered bandages are designed for direct wound care, protection, and absorption. The adhesive strip consists of a non-stick absorbent pad integrated into a flexible backing material, such as woven fabric or plastic film. This small, sterile assembly is ideal for covering minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions, protecting the injury from friction and bacteria.
Gauze is a common material available as rolled gauze or pre-cut pads, used extensively for its absorbent properties. Gauze pads are placed directly over a wound to manage fluid exudate. Rolled gauze is often applied over the pad to secure it and offer light compression. Sterile products are required for direct contact with open wounds.
A specialized type of wound care involves liquid bandages, which are polymeric solutions applied directly to small, clean cuts. These products contain biocompatible polymers dissolved in volatile solvents that quickly evaporate upon contact with air. Once dry, a thin, flexible, and waterproof protective film forms over the wound. This film seals the edges together and offers protection in areas where traditional strips may fail, such as knuckles or joints.
Structural and Support Bandages
Bandages are also designed to provide robust mechanical support and immobilization for musculoskeletal injuries. Elastic or compression wraps contain elastic filaments that provide sustained, adjustable pressure to a limb. These wraps manage soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains, reducing internal swelling. The tension applied must be carefully managed to ensure adequate compression without compromising peripheral circulation.
The triangular bandage is a versatile support tool, consisting of a large piece of cloth that can be folded into a cravat shape or used entirely open. Its most recognizable function is as a sling to support and immobilize an arm or shoulder injury, reducing movement and pain.
Cohesive or self-adherent bandages bond only to themselves and not to skin, hair, or clothing. This self-sticking property eliminates the need for clips or adhesive tape. Cohesive wraps are favored for securing bulky dressings, providing joint support, and delivering consistent compression without the risk of skin irritation.