Types of Bandages

Three basic types of bandages are used in the medical office. A roller bandage is long strip of soft material wound to form a roll. It ranges from 0.5 to 6 inches (1.3 to 15.2 cm) wide and from 2 to 5 yards (1.83 to 4.57 m) long. The width used depends on the part being bandaged. Kling gauze is a special type of gauze that stretches; this allows it to cling, and, as a result, it molds and conforms better to the body part than does regular gauze.

Elastic bandages are made of woven cotton that contains elastic fibers. One brand name of elastic bandages is the ace bandage. Although elastic bandages are expensive, they can be washed and used again. The medical assistant must be extremely careful when applying an elastic bandage because it is easy to apply it too tightly and impede circulation. Elastic adhesive bandages may also be used; these have an adhesive backing to provide a secure fit.

Tubular Gauze Bandage

A tubular gauze bandage consist of seamless elasticized fabric dispensed in a roll. It is used to cover round parts such as fingers, toes, arms, and legs and fits. This type of bandage is easier to apply than a bandage, and it also adhere more securely to the body part. The gauze is applied by means of a plastic or metal, which comes in different sizes. To assist in selecting the proper gauze width, each applicator is marked with a size that corresponds to the size on the tubular gauze bandage box. The gauze is applied by means of a plastic or metal unelike applicator, which comes in different sizes. The applicator must be somewhat larger than the part to be bandaged to allow the gauze to slide easily over the body. To assist in selecting the proper gauze width, each applicator is marked with a size that corresponds to the size on the tubular gauze bandage box.