Exploring the Different Types of Bandages: A Comprehensive Guide

Bandages have many uses in the treatment and management of injury. There are many different types of bandages with different applications to suit injuries as required.Simply put, a bandage can be used to hold a dressing or splint over a wound, put pressure on a bleeding wound or to support an injured limb or joint.

Types of bandages and their uses

There are different types of bandages to suit different applications. Some of the main types of bandages in nursing include:

Adhesive bandages

Adhesive bandages are sterile wound dressings for minor wounds such as small cuts. They help keep dirt and bacteria out of the wound, hold the skin together and promote healing. Adhesive bandages are one of the most common bandage types.

Triangular bandages

Sometimes called cravat bandages, triangular bandages are commonly used as a sling to offer support to injured limbs or broken bones. This triangular cut of cloth can also be used as a normal bandage to hold dressings in place.

Cohesive bandages

Cohesive bandages adhere to themselves, removing the need for a safety pin or tape. They don't stick to skin or hair to avoid discomfort. They can be useful in holding dressings in place, supporting joint injuries and soft tissue injuries.

Conforming bandages

Otherwise known as compression bandages or elastic bandages, these bandages are used to support soft tissue injuries. The long strip of stretchy material applies pressure to the site of the injury. They can also be useful in supporting strains and keeping splints in place.In general, conforming bandages are made from synthetic materials, but are designed to allow the skin beneath to breathe.

Crepe bandages

Also called gauze bandages or roller bandages, crepe bandages are a common type of bandage. They are useful for restricting movement in injured joints, supporting injuries and keeping a dressing in place.Crepe bandages are usually made from a woven, elasticated cotton material, allowing the muscles to flex and the skin to breathe.

Tubular bandages

Tubular bandages are specifically designed to offer compression, support joints during activity and immobilise joints. As the name suggests, they are tubular, and are typically designed for either the wrist, ankle, arm or leg.

Selecting the right types of bandages in first aid

There are things to consider when applying a bandage to ensure the correct bandage is chosen for the specific injury. Incorrect bandage use, or using the wrong bandage type, can potentially lead to further injury.Some factors to consider when selecting which type of bandage to use:

• Which part of the body it's being applied to. Select a bandage that is the correct size, width and length to ensure it can be wrapped around the injury and achieve the desired effect, e.g. restricting mobility of a joint.

• Size of the injury. The bandage needs to fully cover the injury and dressing.

• Severity of injury. Select a bandage that suits the severity of the injury. For example, in the event of broken bones, the bandage will need to offer adequate support and immobilisation of the injury.

• Patient specific needs. Each injury may call for different considerations. The patient may have other injuries to consider, or mobility or lifestyle restrictions.

Best practices for bandage application

It's important to know how to best apply a bandage. While correct bandage application will depend on the location and nature of the injury, and the type of bandage in use, here are some pointers for correct bandage application:

• Ensure the body part is in a supported position as intended to stay when bandaged.

• Avoid leaning over the injured person. Stand to the side closest to the injury.

• When bandaging injured limbs, avoid covering the fingers and toes. You will need to be able to check on blood flow to ensure adequate circulation to the extremities.

• The bandage should be applied firmly, but not too tightly.

• Secure the end of the bandage by folding it over, or using a bandage clip or safety pin.

• Once applied, check circulation by pressing on the skin after the bandage. If the colour doesn't return to normal right away, the bandage is too tight and needs to be loosened. Keep in mind that injuries can continue to swell after the injury has occurred, so regularly check the bandage isn't becoming too tight.

Best practices for bandage removal and disposal

When changing and removing bandages on other people such as in a medical setting, there are some steps that should always be followed.

• Wash your hands first. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap for at least twenty seconds. This is especially important for protecting the wound from infection.

• Wear gloves after washing your hands.

• In the case of adhesive bandages or bandages stuck to the skin, pull the skin away from the bandage rather than the other way around, to minimise pain.

• Dispose of the gloves and the bandage, and the dressing if there is one. Wash your hands again, as this will protect the patient from infection in the case of open wounds.

• Put on a new set of gloves. Clean and redress the wound if required, and rebandage the injury.

• Remove and dispose of your gloves and wash your hands again.

Most Common 5 Types of Bandages with Pictures and Their Uses

Name	Uses	Picture
Adhesive bandages	Used for covering small cuts, blisters, and abrasions to protect them from dirt and infection. They provide a waterproof or breathable barrier, depending on the material, and help wounds heal faster.
Triangular bandages	Commonly used as slings to support injured arms or shoulders. They can also be folded and used as a bandage for head injuries or as a tourniquet in emergencies.
Cohesive bandages	Ideal for wrapping joints or securing dressings without the need for adhesives, as they stick to themselves but not to skin. They provide compression and support for sprains, strains, and swelling.
Crepe bandages	Used for providing compression to reduce swelling and support weak or injured joints and muscles. They help in stabilising sprains, strains, and varicose veins while allowing flexibility.
Tubular bandages	Designed for securing dressings on fingers, toes, or limbs without restricting movement. They provide uniform compression and support for joint injuries, sprains, and strains.

Shop types of bandages

Here at LFA First Response, we supply a wide range of medical grade bandages designed to suit various injuries and offer support to the injured area.Make sure your first aid kit in your home, workplace, healthcare facility or classroom is stocked with various bandage types so you can offer the correct type in the event of an injury.Shop the range online today, or get in touch with us to find out how we can help.