How to Change a Bandage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Taking proper precautions when changing bandages can make the difference between a well-healed wound and an infection. Open wounds are a magnet for bacteria and small debris. Covering the wound with bandages and regularly changing the bandage materials serves two purposes. First, the bandages protect the skin from infection, and second, they protect other people from any fluids the wound may be secreting. You should change your bandages in the morning and at night, and also after every bath or shower. Ask your doctor about changing the bandages more frequently if your wound has large amounts of draining or bleeding.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Two paper towels
• Two pairs of rubber gloves
• Antibacterial towelette
• Antibacterial ointment
• Plastic bag

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands with soap. Scrub them for one minute and rinse them with hot water. Dry your hands on a paper towel and put on a pair of rubber gloves.

• 2

  Peel off the used bandage edges or adhesive slowly. Gently clean any excess fluids or leaking with an antibacterial towelette. Use your finger to dab antibacterial ointment over the wound to prevent infection. Throw out your rubber gloves and the used bandage in a plastic bag.

• 3

  Put on a clean pair of rubber gloves and apply a new bandage to the wound. Carefully seal the edges with tape, if necessary; otherwise simply press the adhesive backing into the skin to block irritants from entering the wound. Remove the second pair of rubber gloves and place them in the plastic bag.

• 4

  Wash your hands again using hot water and soap. Seal the plastic bag and throw it away in a medical waste container or garbage bin.