1.1-1      Intended use 

100% Cotton Elastic Bandage is a powerful compression bandage that may be used to apply a range of sub-bandage pressures. It is primarily intended for the application of controlled levels of pressure in the treatment of venous ulcers and other conditions where compression therapy is required, such as sclerotherapy. Because the bandage has the ability to `follow in', or maintain compression on limbs as they decrease in circumference, it can be used to reduce existing gross oedema.

1.1-2  Method of USE

When using 100% Cotton Elastic Bandage, some workers first apply a layer of padding to offer protection to bony prominences such as the tibial crest, the dorsum of the foot and the malleolus. During application, the leg should be positioned with the knee flexed and the foot at right angles. With the bulk roll facing upwards, a single turn should be made around the ankle and down over the top of the foot and around the base of the toes.

A second turn is then made over the top of the foot and down to cover the heel. After making a further turn around the ankle, the application is completed with a simple spiral up the leg, using the yellow line in the centre of the bandage as a guide for the overlap. Once in place, the bandage may be fastened with clips, tapes, or pins, as appropriate. Care should be taken to ensure that the bandage does not cause a tourniquet effect at the knee, and the operator should ensure that a pressure gradient exists beneath the bandage, with the highest levels of pressure at the ankle. If required, 100% Cotton EAB may be used in conjunction with a paste bandage.