How to Use a Tubular Bandage

How to Use a Tubular Bandage
10 August 2022

How to Use a Tubular Bandage

Tubular bandages are versatile and functional, designed to be slipped over the end of a limb to cover a dressing rather than be wrapped around multiple times like a flat bandage such as a crepe bandage. Tubular bandages are seamless and naturally stretch to conform to body contours. They won’t loosen or unravel, meaning you can rest easy knowing that a dressing will be kept in place safely.

Tubular Bandages are available in a range of sizes for easy use on all areas of the body, including fingers and toes. Bandage application can be simplified by using a tubular bandage applicator, including finger dressing protection using a smaller plastic bandage applicator.

Our Sterogrip Blue Elasticated Tubular Bandage is an essential piece of kit for hospitality or catering professionals recovering from injury. This bandage’s blue colour complies with Food Health and Safety visibility requirements, meaning chefs and caterers can wear dressings securely while in the workplace.

Bandaging arm

How to Use a Tubular Bandage On an Arm or Leg

Securing a tubular bandage over a limb is simple and can be made even easier when using an applicator. If using an applicator, move it carefully along the limb to cover the dressing area before pulling the tubular bandage onto the limb. The applicator will help retain space between the dressing and the tubular bandage during the application, protecting the wound area and reducing the risk of displacing the dressing.

  1. Select the correct width size of the tubular bandage dependent on the broadest part of the limb you are treating. Using a bandage that’s too tight can prevent healing and cause health complications.
  2. Cut the bandage to double the desired length, ensuring it is long enough to cover the dressing fully; allow for an extra 3–4cm length on both ends.
  3. If the bandage is being used on the lower arm, measure out and cut two holes for the thumb. 
  4. Pull the bandage around the hand or foot and move it up the limb gently and evenly. 
  5. Stop before reaching the dressing area, ensuring all excess length of the dressing is pulled fully onto the lower part of the limb with no excess reaching over the foot or hand.
  6. Using both hands or two people, if possible, hold the dressing in place gently while pulling the tubular bandage around the opposite side of the limb, keeping the dressing side stretched away from the wound area. 
  7. Pull the tubular bandage over the dressing area, keeping it stretched out so that it doesn’t touch or move the dressing. 
  8. Allow for an excess of the bandage to sit above the dressing. 
  9. Fold the rest of the tubular bandage over the first layer gently, forming a double layer of gauze to aid compression and keep the dressing securely in place.
@steroplast How do you use a tubular bandage applicator? Bandaging a limb can be difficult when using a highly elasticated tubular bandage. The tubular bandage applicator removes the difficulty and stress of the situation and allows you to apply the tubular bandage without putting pressure on the affected area or making the patient hold an uncomfortable pose. #edutok #learnontiktok #medtok #healthtok #bandage #howto ♬ original sound - Steroplast Healthcare
Little Boy with Injured finger

How to Put on a Tubular Finger Bandage

Applying a tubular finger bandage is similar to the process above; however, it can be far more complicated and fiddly due to the closeness of the other extended digits. Applying a tubular finger bandage is far simpler and safer when using a plastic applicator.

How to Use Tubular Finger Bandage with Applicator:

  1. Cut the tubular finger bandage to the correct size. Ensure it is longer than the dressing but shorter than the finger. 
  2. Cover the plastic applicator with the tubular finger bandage.
  3. Slot the applicator gently over the finger taking care to spread the bandage evenly over the digit. 
  4. Hold the top end of the bandage in place to ensure it doesn’t move out of place as you gently slide the applicator off the finger leaving the tubular bandage secured around the finger.

Simplify Workplace First Aid
Interactive Online Guide & Downloadable Brochure

Simplify Workplace First Aid
Interactive Online Guide & Downloadable Brochure

Choose the format that works for you: check out our Workplace First Aid Interactive Online Guide or download our Workplace First Aid Brochure as an easy-to-save PDF. Both include a self-assessment, product details, pricing, and comprehensive training and support.

Please enter your details into the form below along with any questions or comments and a member of our team will be happy to provide you with more information:

Visit our
Personal First Aid Online Guide

Find everything you need, from first aid kits, plasters & bandages to hot & cold therapy.

Related posts

Subscribe to newsletter