This document provides guidance on dressings and bandages for emergency first aid of children. It notes that dressings may stick to wounds but should still be used, and sterile dressings are preferred but clean materials can substitute. Bandages have several roles like controlling bleeding and ensuring dressings stay in place. The basic types of bandages are roller bandages for securing dressings and supporting limbs, triangular bandages for making slings or securing large dressings, and tubular bandages for supporting injured limbs and holding dressings on digits. Instructions are given for tying a reef knot with a triangular bandage.

1. Emergency First Aid
for Children
13. Dressings and
Bandages

2. Dressings
• Dressings may stick to a wound but
their benefits outweigh any discomfort
caused on removal
• Use purpose made sterile dressing
wherever possible
• If none available, use any clean, non-
fluffy material
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3. Dressings
General rule for applying:
• Dressing should extend beyond wound’s edges
• Place dressing directly onto wound (do not slide)
• If bleeding seeps through, do not remove
instead apply another dressing
• If possible wear disposable gloves (except if
adhesive dressing)
• Avoid touching the dressing where it will come
into contact with the wound
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4. Bandaging
Has several roles:
• Controls bleeding
• Aids the return of blood from wound site
• Ensures dressing stays in place
• Immobilises and supports injured limbs
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5. Bandages
3 Basic types:
For securing
Roller Bandage dressings and
supporting limbs
For making slings or
Triangular bandages secure large
dressings
For supporting injured
Tubular bandages limbs and holding
dressings on digits

6. Tying a Reef Knot
Triangular Bandage
“Right over left then left over right !”
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7. Emergency First Aid
for Children
End of Section