Compression Bandages in First Aid: Definition, Precautions, and Application Techniques

Definition

Also called pressure dressings – large sterile dressings of gauze and other absorbent material, usually with an attached roller bandage. They are used to apply pressure to a wound with severe bleeding aid procedures or a rescue. Example: moving a heavy casualty could place the first aider at risk of injury.

Precautions

• If there is a foreign body, control bleeding by pressing firmly on either side of the embedded object to push the edges of the wound together.

• Do not try to remove the object.

• Raise the injury above the level of the heart.

• Drape a piece of gauze over the wound and object.

• If there is a bystander, ask him/her to call the emergency services; otherwise do it yourself.

What to do

• Apply a long sling and/or bandage (if available, otherwise you can use a tie). Substitution of manual compression by the compression bandage must be carried out as rapidly as possible.

• Cover the wound completely and wind the band or sling at least twice around the bleeding area.

• The compression bandage must be tight enough to stop the bleeding but not so tight that it impairs the circulation. (see picture 13).

• If the compression bandage does not stop the bleeding completely, resume manual compression. A compression bandage should not be used for the head, neck, chest or abdomen.