Not all areas of the body are easy to dress when an injury occurs. Conforming gauze and bandages accommodate curved and contoured areas to act as a primary dressing and protect the wound or a secondary dressing. In both cases, the elastic construction delivers a low amount of compression to aid in wound healing.
What are Conforming Gauze Dressings and Bandages?
Varying in thickness, conforming gauze dressings and bandages:
• Can be applied to a range of areas, including large surface areas, limbs, joints and difficult-to-dress spots.
• Won’t restrict the wearer’s range of motion once applied.
• Remains in place by applying a light degree of compression to improve healing.
• Can be used as a secondary dressing to protect and secure a primary material in place.
• Feature a porous, breathable construction that protects the wound yet still provides circulation, and may be impregnated with petrolatum or another solution.
• Can absorb exudate and control bacteria and moisture present in the wound; absorption varies based on thickness.
• Range in construction from cotton to synthetic.
• Are less likely to come undone or sag during wear.
• Are self-adherent, eliminating the need for adhesive or a fastener.
• May be single-use, packaged individually, or allow for repeat wear or extended use.
During application, conforming gauze dressings and bandages are wrapped around the area in a figure-eight formation for a greater degree of support.
When and Where to Use Conforming Gauze Dressings and Bandages
The flexible construction providing a low degree of compression is ideal for individuals needing more movement in an area of the body. In turn, they assist with wound care involving the:
• Hand
• Wrist
• Ankle
• Knee
• Elbow
Along with dressing wounds, conforming gauze can help support a cast or splint and can create a barrier between the skin and CPAP equipment.
