49 SA Basic Bandage Leg, Head, Body

We often place bandages for only a few hours ex) to secure an IV catheter for surgery and recovery period, or for a day or two ex) to protect a surgery site, or a more long term bandage that needs inspection and changing every few days or longer examples) wound management, or splint care for fractured bone weekly checks for a puppy or kitten-or any splint IMO.

Basically the more severe the wound (deep, heavy trauma, infected) the more exudate is expected, so choosing a wound dressing that can absorb fluid and wick it away from the wound while still maintaining a moist environment for wound healing is best.  Think of a covered wound healing better than open wound that is susceptible to drying out.

Along with every bandage it is important to go over proper bandage care with owners so they fully understand how to care for a bandage!  Nasty things can be created underneath a bandage or splint that isn’t closely monitored!  Be sure to ask Dr. Sue about bandage check she saw as an intern as the dog was no longer using the leg and had a funny smell!

Insert bandage care handout here

When viewing these videos take note of how the bandage roll is held and wound around the leg, overlapping by approximately half of width, smooth and no wrinkles! Wrinkles can lead to irritation and pressure sores if padding is not smooth and joint adequately padded.

Leg Bandage

Head bandage

Body Bandage