The compression bandage consists of two layers:
- A layer that ensures even pressure distribution (padding). Suitable materials include non-absorbent cotton wool wadding, synthetic wadding and, in an emergency, foam rubber.
- A fixing and compression layer. Preferably a strong, non-elastic roller bandage should be used, such as cambric bandage. In an emergency, a fully-extended elastic bandage can be used. This bandage should be applied tightly and with even pressure on the body part involved.
The padding should extend beyond the roller bandage by 1 cm at each side, to prevent the bandage cutting into the skin and to prevent vascular congestion. As a compression bandage exerts circular pressure on the body part involved, a bandage which has been applied too tightly or one where padding is partially missing can cause vascular congestion.
The difference in blood pressure and the fact that the veins are more superficial than arteries means that venous return will first be affected. Vascular congestion will usually develop distal to the bandage. After applying the compression bandage, check peripheral blood flow for signs of congestion after a few minutes. A compression bandage should never be applied to the elbow as the blood vessels and nerves that run close to the surface in the elbow can be easily constricted.
A compression bandage has been properly applied if:
- The padding adequately and fully covers the body part involved in an even number of layers.
- The roller bandage fully covers the padding, except the ends, and exerts even pressure on the tissue.
