Gauze


Gauze is a something no first aid kit should be without. It is necessary in dressing wounds, blisters, burns, and scrapes. It is also used post-surgery and in treating nosebleeds. After a wound has been cleaned, it needs to be covered in order to protect it from infection and additional injury. This is typically done with sterile gauze. Gauze comes in rolls and pads.

How is Gauze Made?

Gauze products are made from woven and non-woven fibers. Gauze differs from other bandages, adhesive tapes, and cotton products. It is specifically intended not to stick to wounds, skin, hair or clothing, but will stick to itself. Woven products will typically use either fine or coarse cotton mesh, depending on the density of thread count per inch.

Fine mesh is used for dressing normal wounds, and coarse mesh is used for the removal of debris, or dead and dying tissue. These types of gauze are frequently made from cotton, rayon, polyester, and combination blends of these fibers. Likewise, non-woven gauze dressings are made from these fibers but are stronger, softer, and more absorbent. Specialty gauze products may have substances to aid in the promotion of healing.

A good gauze product is non-toxic, and should not cause dermatitis or leave a residue. Removal should be painless and skin and leave injuries unharmed.

How to Use Gauze

In the event of a flesh injury or trauma, the wound should first be gently cleaned. A would may not necessarily need to be covered; as letting a wound air helps it to dry and encourages healing. But, if the wound is in an area that will get dirty, can be exposed to infectious pathogens like bacteria, or will be irritated by clothing, it is best to cover it.

Large scraps and abrasions that cover large areas should always be covered to keep the wound moist, reduce scarring, and accelerate healing. For these types of wounds, and minor burns, and blisters, the gauze should be slightly larger than the area it is intended to protect. If you use a 2x2 or 4x4 gauze pad, use adhesive tape, paper tape, or loose elastic bandages to hold them in place. Gauze rolls can also be used to cover the wounds.

Using Gauze to Treat Bleeding

In the event of severe bleeding, first remove any visible dirt or debris from the wound. Don't remove embedded or large objects. Elevate and clean the wound if possible. Use sterile gauze to apply pressure, and maintain pressure until bleeding stops. Pressure can be maintained by using a gauze roll and adhesive tape.

If bleeding continues, do not remove the gauze. It may reopen the wound and cause the bleeding to last longer. Simply add more gauze to absorb the blood, and visit an emergency room as soon as possible.

By Doug Vanisky           


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