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Pressure dressings are used as first-aid for heavily bleeding wounds. They help stop excessive blood loss by applying compression on the damaged blood vessels to facilitate blood clotting.
However, these dressings are not directly applied to the wound. The wound is first covered with an absorbent dressing to absorb blood and fluid. Then, it is layered with a pressure dressing so that the primary dressing stays secure. Pressure dressings are usually non-adhesive and usually need to be secured with a clip.
Covering the wound with a pressure dressing has multiple benefits. It applies adequate pressure to reduce swelling and keeps bacteria and other contaminants at bay. It also ensures that the injured area does not suffer additional trauma from repetitive movement to facilitate faster healing. Certain surgical procedures also require using a pressure dressing after surgery.
The steps to applying a pressure dressing are as follows:
The objective behind wrapping the bandage tightly is to apply compression but not to restrict the blood flow completely.
There are other ways to treat a bleeding wound, like using a tourniquet or applying pressure manually by hand, also known as direct pressure.
A tourniquet is typically used for injuries that could result in amputation, such as vehicle crashes, farm accidents, industrial accidents, and severe household mishaps. If applied correctly, the tourniquet can be a lifesaver.
Tourniquets are beneficial because direct pressure only works for some time. Life-threatening injuries require intense and constant pressure that controls blood loss until the injured person is transported to a hospital. Direct pressure is good for non-life-threatening injuries.
When a tourniquet or manual pressure is ineffective in stopping blood loss, another alternative is to use hemostatic agents to contract blood vessels. They are used to control severe blood loss where the application of a tourniquet is difficult, such as in the chest, groin, and abdomen. Hemostatic agents commonly used in the military are lightweight and compact, do not have side effects, and become effective within two minutes.
HPFY carries a wide range of products to help with wound management. Some of our best sellers are:
FSA Approved
Ideal for wound dressings wound packing, and general wound care, these sponges help protect wounds from dust and other external impurities. The C-fold design minimizes loose threads and lint. Unlike cotton, it will not stick to a wet wound.
FSA Approved
Manages exudate, infection, and bioburden by absorbing fluid from a wound and converting it into a soft gel. It aids in healing by maintaining a moist wound environment and is specially designed to reduce pain during dressing changes.
FSA Approved
A go-to pressure bandage to stop bleeding and treat sprains and strains, this bandage offers adequate compression and support to weak, sore muscles and joints. Featuring a Velcro closure that secures easily and eliminates the need for clips, it provides an anti-microbial treatment and inhibits bacterial growth.
Lymphedema is the swelling that occurs when lymph fluid does not drain properly. Lymph fluid carries white blood cells, which help the body tackle infections. Improper drainage may occur because of a cancerous tumor, parallel removal of lymph nodes to remove a tumor or radiation treatment.
One of the ways to reduce pain and swelling associated with lymphedema is to use a pressure dressing or a pressure bandage. The bandage applies compression on the lymphatic system and the lymph nodes to push accumulated fluid to the center of the body and ensures there is no backflow of the fluid so it can be easily drained.
Although a pressure dressing helps control blood loss and edema, always be aware of possible risks such as:
Consult your doctor if you have persistent pain or skin issues that do not resolve.
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Akanksha Nigam has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2021. With a Masters Degree in Finance, she began her Marketing career in the banking industry. However, her interest in human ...
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