Everyone says that band-aids are the “heroes of minor injuries”, so can all small wounds be treated with band-aids? The truth is not so simple.
In general, band-aids are more suitable for shallow, neat, and not bleeding much minor wounds. In some cases, incorrect use may bring other health risks.
When should band-aids be used?
The main functions of band-aids are three: one is to protect the wound, band-aids can prevent dirt from entering, especially preventing bacteria from entering to cause secondary infection, and can temporarily protect the wound to reduce friction and stimulation and pain caused by touching. The second function is to keep the environment near the wound mild and moist, promoting wound healing. The third function is that it can absorb a small amount of fluid exuded from the wound, avoiding staining of clothes.
At first glance, it seems that any wound can be treated with band-aids, but in fact, this is not the case. Here are some situations that are not suitable for using band-aids:
Wounds with heavy bleeding should not use them.
Band-aids are not suitable for animal bites.
Wounds that are small but deep should not use them.
Band-aids are not suitable for burns and scalds.
Wounds with pus should not use them.
Next, let’s look at these situations while comparing them with the previous questions and explain in detail.
A small cut was made on an A4 paper
It can be used. Such wounds are shallow, small, and have little bleeding, and are painful when touched. They are suitable for using band-aids.
When accidentally falling during running and scratching a large area of skin
Large-area scratches often have more and dirtier wounds, and need proper cleaning and disinfection. In some cases, medical dressings should be used for bandaging, and band-aids are not suitable.
Burned and blistered by boiling water
For burn and blistering situations, it is not necessary to use band-aids. If used, it may tear the skin.
Deep wounds with continuous bleeding
In this case, usually pressure should be applied to stop the bleeding and seek medical attention promptly. Using band-aids alone will not help.
Injured by a nail
This situation often has a deep wound, and there may be dirt at the bottom, as well as the risk of tetanus. It is best to go to the hospital for disinfection and bandaging, and if necessary, inject tetanus vaccine. Do not just use a band-aid to cover it.
When accidentally scratched by a knife
This situation often has a deep wound, and there may be dirt at the bottom. There is also a risk of tetanus. It is best to go to the hospital for disinfection and bandaging. If necessary, inject tetanus immunoglobulin and tetanus vaccine, and also the tetanus vaccine.
How to use band-aids
After knowing when band-aids can be used, we also need to understand the correct way to use band-aids:
Clean hands with wet wipes or disinfectant hand soap.
Check if the wound is clean. If necessary, rinse it with clean water, soap water, or normal saline to remove dirt.
If possible, use iodine tincture for disinfection. Here, we particularly recommend using disposable iodine cotton swabs.
If possible, apply a little antibiotic ointment to the wound, which is more conducive to wound healing.
Check if the band-aid package is intact and undamaged. If damaged, the band-aid may be contaminated and needs to be replaced.
Place the band-aid on the wound, and do not touch the middle pad of the band-aid with your hands to avoid contaminating the wound.
Check if the tightness of the bandage is appropriate and avoid hindering movement and blood circulation.
Replace or remove the bandage within 24 hours.