Cohesive Bandages - The Benefits Explained

What is a cohesive bandage?

A cohesive bandage is a type of medical wrap that sticks only to itself and not to skin or fur. It is made of elastic fabric and has a slightly tacky surface that adheres to itself when wrapped around a limb or body part. Cohesive bandages are also known as self-adhering, self-stick, or self-gripping bandages. They are commonly used in veterinary medicine to provide support, compression, and protection to injured or healing body parts.

What's the difference between cohesive and adhesive bandages?

Adhesive bandages, also known as sticky bandages, are different from cohesive bandages. Adhesive bandages stick directly to the skin or fur of the patient, creating a seal around a wound or injury. They are typically made of non-stretchy materials like cotton or plastic and come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit different body parts.

Adhesive bandages are commonly used to cover small wounds or punctures, prevent infection, and keep the wound clean and dry. In contrast, a cohesive bandage is stretchy and flexible, allowing them to conform to the shape of the body part and provide support and compression. They are often used to wrap injured or healing limbs, provide support to joints, or secure dressings and splints.

How to apply a cohesive bandage

1. Clean and dry the area where you plan to apply the bandage
2. Hold the end of the bandage against the skin and wrap it around the affected area in a spiral motion, overlapping each turn by about half the width of the bandage
3. Keep the bandage taut but not too tight to avoid constricting the area or cutting off circulation
4. Continue wrapping the bandage until you reach the desired length or until the entire affected area is covered
5. Use the self-adhesive property of the cohesive bandage to secure the end by pressing it against the previously wrapped area

It's important to remember not to wrap the cohesive bandage too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort. Also, make sure to avoid stretching the bandage excessively, as this can lead to skin irritation and discomfort.

Can you get a cohesive bandage wet?

Yes, you can get it wet. However, it's important to keep in mind that the degree to which a cohesive bandage can be exposed to water or moisture will depend on the specific brand and material used. Some cohesive bandages may be more water-resistant than others, so it's a good idea to read the instructions or ask us to check with the manufacturer. In general, it's a good idea to avoid getting a cohesive bandage excessively wet as this can compromise its adhesive properties and cause it to loosen or fall off.