Sterile Procedures
LESSON 4: Procedures Used in Wound Care
4-3
4-3. BANDAGES AND TAPES
The dressing is normally secured by a bandage. In some situations, though, tape is used to keep the dressing over the wound. Bandages can also be used to wrap and protect a body part even if no separate dressing material is used.
a. Bandages.
(1) Kling or Kerlix bandage. Kling and Kerlix bandages are loosely woven or knitted roller gauze bandages that are soft and conform easily. This bandage is highly absorptive and is appropriate when a bulky dressing is needed.
(2) Elastic bandage. Elastic bandages are made from woven material that can be stretched and molded around the body part. If a sterile bandage is not required, an elastic bandage can be reused on the same patient.
(3) Roller gauze bandage. Roller gauze bandages are made from loose mesh material. They are available in various widths from 1 to 4 inches and are usually 5 yards long.
b. Tapes.
(1) Adhesive tape. Adhesive tape is made from cotton, cloth, paper, or foam. It is available in several widths. In addition to being used to secure dressings, the adhesive tapes are used to secure splints, immobilize various parts of the body, and to strap joints to prevent or treat athletic injuries. An adhesive solvent is used to remove any adhesive that sticks to the skin around the wound when the tape is removed.
(2) Hypoallergenic tape. Hypoallergenic tape is made from paper and is porous to allow air exchange.
(3) Plastic tape. Plastic tape is transparent and porous to allow air exchange.
