Gauze pads and wraps can be used to treat many minor cuts and scrapes. Gauze is an essential item that should be included in your first aid kit at home, work, school, or in your vehicle. Here are some tips on when to bandage a wound with gauze and how to do it.
When Should You Cover a Wound with Gauze?
Some wounds should be bandaged with gauze, while others can be left uncovered. A small wound with a minimal amount of bleeding can be left uncovered because it will heal quickly. A cut on a part of the body that is used a lot, such as a hand, should be bandaged with gauze to prevent the formation of scabs that could interfere with its use.
Gauze is recommended to cover wounds for several reasons. It can protect the wound from dirt and bacteria to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. Gauze maintains a moist environment, which allows oxygen to get to the wound and promotes healing. It absorbs blood and promotes clotting.
Types of Gauze
Several types of gauze can be included in a first aid kit. Sponges are 2×2 inch or 4×4 inch layered gauze squares that are used as padding over wounds. Impregnated gauze is covered with medicine to prevent infection. Gauze wrapping can be made of cotton, nylon, or elastic and is used to secure a wound.
How to Use Gauze to Cover a Wound
To bandage a wound with gauze, you will need a gauze pad larger than the wound. Wear gloves when you open a package of sterile gauze pads. Use a medicated gauze pad or put antibiotic ointment on the pad. Make sure the pad is thick enough to absorb drainage from the wound.
Clean the wound thoroughly and then place a gauze pad over it. Then wrap gauze around the wound. Start below the wound and work your way upward. Do not wrap the wound too tightly because that can cause the gauze pad to stick to the wound. Secure the outer gauze with medical tape, unless it is self-adhesive.
If you need to cover a large wound with gauze, unroll a piece of gauze wrap and lay it flat. Cover the wound with a gauze pad and then use a thumb to hold one edge of the wrap on the edge of the gauze pad. Roll the wrap around the wound and cover it twice. Secure the wrap with a piece of tape or a clip.
Change the Gauze Frequently
You should change the bandage often while the wound is healing. Remove the outer layer of wrapping and then remove the gauze pad. Be careful because the pad may stick to the wound. Pulling it off quickly can cause further damage to the wounded area. Clean the wound and re-bandage it following the procedure above. Check the wound for signs of infection.
Order Gauze and Other Supplies for Your First Aid Kit
Make sure your first aid kit or cabinet is stocked with essential items you may need to treat minor injuries. You should have sterile gauze pads and gauze wrap so you can treat cuts and scrapes. Order gauze and other supplies for your first aid kit from 1st Aid Supplies today.
