How to apply a foot bandage

01 October 2011
Practical
8 mins read
02 October 2011
Volume 2 · Issue 8

Abstract

Bandaging is a very common practice for veterinary nurses and when properly applied can provide optimal recovery for a variety of conditions such as cut pads, haemorrhage control and post-surgical interventions. Some care must be taken to assure proper bandaging skills in order to avoid redness, oedema, abrasions and other major complications

Bandaging in small animals is a routine procedure. However, it should not be seen as an easy task, automatically done. It is very important to do it calmly, and with method and proficiency, to ensure successful healing without causing further trauma; only with practice can we become excellent professionals.

The current text describes the different bandaging techniques used to apply a foot bandage, the correct bandage choice and application.

There are some golden rules that every VN must take in account:

  • All material must be collected prior to bandaging
  • Wash and dry hands carefully, to avoid contamination of any wounds
  • Prepare a quiet and clean location to do the bandaging
  • Ask an assistant to correctly restrain the animal
  • Perform trichotomy of hair to avoid bacterial overgrowth and skin problems beneath the bandage (although some authors prefer to maintain the hair that will function as an extra padding layer)
  • Clean and dry any existing wounds before bandaging
  • Whenever applying an extremity bandage, always do it from distal to proximal part of the limb. Pressure should be applied in this direction otherwise a garrotte can result, impairing blood circulation
  • Apply bandages firmly, but not too tightly or too loose. A bandage that is too tight can impair circulation, and if it is too loose, it can easily fall off
  • The bandage's final appearance must be pleasant and professional and efforts should be taken to apply layers evenly to prevent pressure sores
  • Always remember that the animal must be comfortable, otherwise, he will try to remove the bandage through all (im)possible means.

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    bandaging
    small animal
    foot bandage
    monitoring