How long to keep a bandage on

Then fold it in half again in the same direction to make a broad strip. Page last reviewed: 4 May Next review due: 4 May Home Common health questions Accidents, first aid and treatments Back to Accidents, first aid and treatments. How do I apply a bandage? The key points when applying a bandage are: make sure the person is comfortable and tell them what you're doing work from the side of the injury so you do not have to lean across their body keep the injured part of the body supported in the position it'll be in when the bandage is on use the right size bandage — different parts of the body need different widths of bandage avoid covering fingers or toes when bandaging a limb so you can easily check the circulation apply the bandage firmly, but not tightly, and secure the end by folding it over and tying a knot in the end.

You can also use a safety pin, tape or a bandage clip as soon as the bandage is on, ask if it feels too tight and check the circulation by pressing on a fingernail or a piece of skin until it turns pale. If the colour does not return straight away, the bandage may be too tight, so you should loosen it. These ointments may help prevent infection and keep the wound moist to help the healing process. Some people are sensitive to these products and may develop a rash. Change the bandage each day—or sooner, if it becomes dirty or wet—to keep the wound clean and dry.

Some wounds, such as scrapes that cover a large area, should be kept moist to help reduce scarring. Sealed bandages work best for this purpose. Taking care of cuts and wounds promptly speeds healing and reduces the chance of permanent scarring.

Search Encyclopedia. Taking Care of Cuts and Scrapes Cuts and scrapes are everyday occurrences, and most can be safely treated at home. Home care for minor cuts According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, minor cuts can be safely treated at home.

Here's how to tell if a cut needs medical attention: It's deep enough that you can see fat, muscle, or bone. The wound has jagged edges or edges that are far apart. The wound is long or blood is gushing or spurting from it.

Here's what to do for a minor cut: Stop bleeding by putting pressure on the area with a tissue, gauze pad, or clean cloth. Apply a butterfly bandage to a deeper cut after bleeding has stopped or slowed. When a cut needs more than home care You should see your healthcare provider about these cuts if: The wound is deep and jagged.

You're supposed to keep a wound covered and dry for a day or two. But an Australian study is rubbing some doubt into that wound-care supposition. Doctors in the Mackay area of Queensland enrolled about skin surgery patients in their study. Skin cancer is common in Australia, and about half of the patients had skin abnormalities excised that tests later showed to be cancerous. To continue reading this article, you must log in.

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