Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

7 Bleeding, Wound Care and Trauma

Signs and Symptoms Wound Infection

Dressings and Bandages Dressings and bandages are used in the first aid of many injuries and are the primary component of first aid for external bleeding. A dressing is used directly against a wound. Dressings are used to control bleeding, absorb blood, and cover and protect a wound. Some dressings are airtight, using a plastic material to seal off the wound. These are called occlusive dressings. A bandage is used to hold a dressing in place. Bandages are used to keep pressure on a wound, support or immobilize a joint or limb, and provide padding around an injury. The first aider needs to know how to control bleeding, dress, bandage, and support an injury with both commercially prepared and improvised materials. Knowing the properties of bandages and dressings and how they are used is an important skill when improvising first aid supplies in an emergency.

• Swollen tissue in and around the wound. • Red, flushed skin around the wound. Red streaks above or below the wound. • Wound area is noticeably warmer than the rest of the body. • Wound becomes more painful or aches. • Coloured discharge (pus); Pus can be off-white, yellowish, greenish, or brownish coloured liquid; Bad odour from the wound.

Remember to take precautions anytime there is the possibility of contact with blood or bodily fluids. Wearing gloves protects you and the patient.

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