Learning how to dress a wound properly is a very important skill that can save lives and prevent situations from getting out of control. When used correctly, wound dressings help prevent wounds and cuts from becoming infected. However, you must assess the wound before deciding how to dress it. Now, we will take a look at the key steps and procedures that you should follow to ensure that you take care of a wound.
Types of Dressings for Wounds
Let’s discuss the types of dressings for your wounds; you have a variety to choose from: what you decide to choose depends on the severity of the injury
- Plasters: Plasters are perfect for minor cuts and scrapes.
- Bandages: work well for wounds that are larger than cuts and scrapes
- Tapes: Tapes are used to help with dressings, making sure dressings stay in place.
- Compresses: Perfect for applying pressure to bleeding wounds.
Being equipped with the appropriate items and knowledge can go a long way when dealing with a situation where you need to tend to a wound swiftly without wasting a second. You need to be well-informed regarding the kind of dressing you need. Keep in mind that you should only cover a wound if it continuously produces liquid or is going to come in contact with clothes. This aids in preventing infections. Additionally, the right kind of dressing helps prevent exposure to dust, which can potentially protect an individual from infections
If you are willing to acquire skills and knowledge to handle wounds, whether it be a minor scrape or a deep wound, Learn how to choose the right dressing, how to apply it properly, and familiarise yourself with the essentials of First Aid with expert guidance today by joining our Emergency First Aid at Work Course
Choosing the Right Wound Dressing
To find the best dressing, assess the type and size of your wound. Here’s how to tackle some of these day-to-day cases:
Minor Scrapes and Cuts
Once the wound has been cleansed, it is then examined, and a dressing solution is selected according to the size of the wound. For minor cuts, an Elastoplast Fabric Extra Flexible Plaster works wonders. For more significant scratches, opt for the Elastoplast Heavy Fabric Waterproof XL. If the bleeding is substantial, apply pressure using a dressing like the Elastoplast Non-Stick Dressing to help control it.
Blisters
If your blister is still intact, it is advisable to leave it uncovered. Letting it heal naturally is the best way to manage such blisters. However, if it’s on the part of your body where it’s going to come in contact with clothing or shoes, then it is recommended that you protect it with an Elastoplast Blister Plaster; this will aid in quick healing.
Cuts on specific areas
For cuts on fingers, heels, knuckles, and knees—areas that move a lot—use Elastoplast Extra Flexible Fabric Plasters. They provide excellent protection while allowing for movement. Alternatively, consider a pressure dressing or Elastoplast Spray Plaster; it’s easy to apply and works well in tricky spots.
If you need help with the proper dressing for your wound, our interactive wound advisor tool can help guide you.
Specialised Wound Dressing Procedures
Some wounds need special care, particularly when you have sensitive skin, need waterproof protection or have more serious wounds.
Wound Dressing for Sensitive Skin
If your skin tends to react to specific materials, choosing dressings designed for sensitivity is essential. Elastoplast Sensitive Plasters offer moderate adhesion to minor wounds, which is gentle and secure. They come in various sizes, or you can easily cut them to fit.
On very sensitive skin, Elastoplast Silicone Soft Plasters should be used. They are very gentle and can be removed painlessly, making them ideal when you change your dressings very often.
Waterproof Dressings
When you need to use water in your everyday routine, use Elastoplast Aqua Protect Waterproof Plasters. These dressings keep your wound sealed and protected, allowing flexibility and breathability. The Elastoplast Heavy Fabric Waterproof Plaster offers strong adhesion without sacrificing comfort for more demanding activities.
Larger Wounds
After a minor surgery, more extensive wounds might need more substantial dressings. Elastoplast Antibacterial Waterproof XXL Plasters contain antibacterial silver to keep the area clean and reduce infection risks. They are non-sticky and can be used in wet conditions.
In case of sensitive skin, the plaster would be the Elastoplast Sensitive Antibacterial XL/XXL, which offers a comfortable cover while cushioning and protecting against bacteria.
Wound Dressing Steps
Dressing a wound properly involves just a few simple steps:
- Act quickly: Attend to the wound as soon as possible.
- Clean the wound: Rinse gently with clean water to remove dirt or debris.
- Cover with the proper dressing: Choose a dressing that fits your wound’s size and type.
- Apply a wound healing ointment:This can help heal the wound and reduce the risk of infection.
- Change your dressing regularly: Aim to change it daily for hygiene or follow your doctor’s advice.
How Often Should You Change Dressings?
As a general rule, you need to replace the dressing daily due to hygienic reasons, unless your doctor advises you not to. By following these steps and knowing the different kinds of wound dressings, you can properly manage your wounds at home. Remember, proper dressing and first aid are essential for preventing complications and supporting your body’s natural healing process. You can make yourself feel better by taking the time to take care of your wounds!
Wound Dressing for Hard to Dress Areas
If you have sensitive skin, you can’t avoid water while your wound is healing. If your wound is massive or deep, you will need an appropriate dressing to ensure it heals properly. If your pain receptors are extra sensitive to certain substances, then you would need to be extra careful when choosing a dressing for the wound. You would need to choose a dressing that won’t irritate your skin. Here are some examples of dressings for sensitive skin.
Elastoplast sensitive plasters– These are all-purpose adhesive plasters for people with easily irritated skin. They are built to protect minor wounds and come in various sizes.
Elastoplast Silicone Soft Plasters are ideal for individuals with highly fragile, sensitive skin who require extra care to treat the wound. They also work best when the plaster is changed frequently; the removal is smooth and 100 percent pain-free.
Waterproof protection: If your work involves exposure to water and the affected area is wet quite often, you’d need to protect the wound from harmful bacteria.
Elastoplast Aqua Protect Waterproof Plasters: It is imperative that you use these for small wounds, cuts, or scrapes. They are ideal if you’ll be exposing the wound to water repeatedly.
Elastoplast Heavy Fabric Waterproof Plaster: If you require a plaster with an extra-strong adhesive that does not compromise flexibility or breathability, an Elastoplast heavy fabric waterproof plaster is ideal. Its HI-DRY TEX technology guarantees protection and care even during heavy-duty activities.
