The instruments listed below represent the minimum equipment required to apply or remove bandages. Practicality and cost were considered when selecting these instruments [Figure 5]. For example, it is easier to remove a plaster cast using an oscillating plaster saw than a hand saw, yet the price of an electric saw is reason to reconsider its purchase. For the purchasing and use of wound care material, please refer to the “Minor Surgery” section.
Lister Bandage Scissors
These bandage scissors have a flattened, blunt point. This side of the scissors can easily be slid under the bandage layer without the risk of wounding. When removing tape bandages, the application of Vaseline to the blunt end of the scissors is recommended. The scissors are available in various sizes (14, 18 and 20 cm).
Engel’s Plaster Saw
This small, remarkably shaped saw can be used in various ways, depending on the shape of the plaster cast. The plaster saw can be used to create a groove along which the plaster cast should be cut open. The plaster saw is particularly useful for a thick, hard layer of plaster. An oscillating saw is indispensable in splitting open synthetic materials.
Stille Plaster Shears
Once a small groove has been made in the plaster case using Engel’s plaster saw, it is quite easy to cut open the cast. It is important to ensure that the lower blade of the scissors is manoeuvred between the layer of plaster and the padding layer as the padding can make it very difficult to cut.
Henning Plaster Spreader
Once the plaster cast has been cleaved, the spreader can be used to break it open further by means of the instrument’s lever action.
Nail Clipper with Barrel Spring
In the case of wounds involving finger tips, it may be necessary to cut the nail to enable optimal treatment of the wound.
Ring Cutter
In the case of wounds involving fingers or hands, if there is a risk that post-traumatic swelling may cause circulation problems, rings should be removed. If the ring cannot be removed, even with the use of soap or a small string, the ring cutter can be used. The saw blade is replaceable.
Shaving Equipment
Hair growth should first be removed, particularly if adhesive material is to be used. In terms of hygiene and prevention, the use of disposable razor blades is recommended.
Figure 5
A Ring Cutter
B Henning Plaster Spreader
C Stille Plaster Shears
D Engel’s Plaster Saw
E Lister Bandage Scissors
F Tweezers
G Shaving Equipment
H Nail Clipper & Barrel Spring