What is a bandage?

What is a bandage?

• A. A protective bandage covering a wound
• B. A pad used to absorb pressure
• C. A device to immobilize the entire limb
• D. A strip of woven material that holds a wound, dressing, or splint in place; immobilizes, supports, and protects an injured part of the body

Answer: (D)

A bandage is a strip of cloth or similar material used to secure a wound dressing in place and to provide support and protection to the injured area. It isn’t just a protective covering, nor is it simply a pad or a device that immobilizes an entire limb. The key idea is that the bandage holds the dressing or a splint in place, helps immobilize or support the injured part, and protects it from further injury or contamination. That combination of securing dressing, offering support, and enabling some immobilization is why the best description is the one that mentions holding a wound, dressing, or splint in place and providing immobilization, support, and protection.

A bandage is a strip of cloth or similar material used to secure a wound dressing in place and to provide support and protection to the injured area. It isn’t just a protective covering, nor is it simply a pad or a device that immobilizes an entire limb. The key idea is that the bandage holds the dressing or a splint in place, helps immobilize or support the injured part, and protects it from further injury or contamination. That combination of securing dressing, offering support, and enabling some immobilization is why the best description is the one that mentions holding a wound, dressing, or splint in place and providing immobilization, support, and protection.