Bandaging is a basic procedure. Nurses of various levels perform nursing procedures daily. It should, however, never be attempted without prior planning and consideration. Bandages are not like band-aids that you can put on your injury and can be done only by yourself. Bandages can be used for a variety of reasons. Therefore it’s important to pay attention to the proper application technique. Individuals can be hurt by bandages that are applied inappropriately.

 

The decision to use bandages is based on a variety of factors. They include the following:

 

  • Dressings must be secured, especially when adhesive dressings are not available.
  • Joint support is important.
  • Reduction of edema.
  • Compression therapy is given to patients with venous leg ulcers and lymphedema.

 

Compression bandaging is a specialized technique that necessitates additional training and expertise.

 

How does a compression bandage work?

 

A compression bandage may most effectively prevent swelling in the days following the injury. You can wear it for a longer period if it does not aggravate your pain. It’s simple to apply a compression bandage at home. The steps are the same, whether you’re putting one on your wrist, ankle, etc. Follow the bandage’s directions.

 

Compression bandages are highly helpful, but they aren’t ideal for every condition. Numerous options may be more appropriate for certain injuries or medical issues. Self-adherent compression wraps are commonly used to give compression in athletics or after a blood draw. They’re even capable of serving as a triangular bandage or sling.

 

Classification of compression bandages

 

Compression bandages are divided into two categories based on their material features and functions. Lightweight, conforming stretch bandages and knitted polyamide and cellulose contour bandages are examples of type one. Their major functions are to maintain limb conformance, secure dressing, and keep them in place.

 

Polyamide and elastane, elastomer and viscose, or cotton are all used to make type two compression bandages. Their primary responsibilities include treating sprains and strains, preventing edema, and providing modest support to the limb.

 

Compression bandage application

 

A compression wrap is an elastic bandage. If you’ve recently had an injury or wish to enhance your circulation, you might need to utilize one. It applies pressure on the injured body area when wrapped around it, which helps to minimize swelling. In some circumstances, compression wraps may be a long-term treatment for health issues such as blood clots and circulation problems. The following are the basic methods to apply compression bandages effectively:

 

  • Choose a comfortable stance and avoid leaning over the patient to protect your back.

 

  • Adults should use a 10cm-wide bandage for their lower limbs. A broader compression wrap will be more difficult to conform to the limb, particularly around the foot, while a smaller bandage may result in more overlapping layers, perhaps causing pressure damage.

 

  • Before bandaging the patient’s ankle, have them bend their foot to lessen the amount of mass around the ankle, which would hinder ankle flexion movements.

 

  • To fix the bandage, begin at the base of the toes and wrap it around the foot one or two times.

 

  • Place the bandage across the front of the foot, working your way to the heel.

 

  • Wrap the bandage around the back of your foot and across the front of your foot.

 

  • Fill the space with the bandage by placing it beneath the soul of the foot and then returning it across the top of the foot. The foot’s heel and sole should be completely ringed. If the patient’s foot is particularly long, it may require two rounds to cover it completely. Use a multi-layer compression bandage.

 

  • Resume wrapping up the leg in a spiral pattern, ensuring a 50 percent overlap.

 

  • Finish at the knee. Two-finger widths below the popliteal fossa are the ideal position (back of the knee).

 

  • Remove any surplus bandage and use medical tape to tape it down. Wrapping the excess bandage over the top might cause skin damage due to excessive pressure or a tourniquet effect and restrict venous return.

 

  • Ascertain that the patient’s ankle can flex freely.

 

The dangers of improper bandaging

 

It can push fluid into the tissues above or below the bandage if bandages are not applied from toe to knee or overlapping is incorrect. It can result in misshapen limbs. It can result in pressure sores or blisters. When removing a wound dressing or bandage, check the skin for redness, creases, or blistering, which suggests excessive pressure or friction caused by the inadequate application. 

 

  • Edema of the feet

 

It can push fluid into the forefoot if the bandage is not applied from the base of the toes, creating edema. It can also happen if you wrap your ankle in too many layers of bandage. It can lead to tissue congestion, poor perfusion, and a reduction in waste clearance. Foot care is needed if you still have issues with it, and proper hygiene will do too!

 

  • Blistering

 

Blisters can form due to insufficient bandage overlapping, either from fluid leaking out between the layers or from friction if the bandage is not secured properly.

 

  • Damage from the pressure

 

The strain from bandaging might cause injury to bony prominences. You should evaluate any malformations in the foot, and sensitive spots should be protected from undue pressure using wool padding. The front of the foot, heel, and ankles should all be given special care, and you should treat any redness indicating non-blanching erythema. A soft kerlix should provide extra protection to these susceptible areas. You can use a tubular stockinette liner underneath the bandage to decrease irritation.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Compression bandaging is a technique that should only be performed by experts who are knowledgeable and skilled in the field. Before applying any bandage, determine the precise requirement for bandaging. If an alternate option is available, it should be examined, such as using adhesive dressings.

 

Compression bandages don’t promise to provide protection. If your ankle is bandaged, you still need an ankle brace or mobility aids to protect and care for it. These wonderful and helpful products are all available here at AvaCare Medical. For more queries, please email us here at info@avacaremedical.com or contact us here at 1-877-813-7799.