Compressive bandaging is a medical technique. It involves using elastic bandages to apply pressure to a specific body part. Usually, compression therapy is performed on the legs. This technique is often used to treat conditions such as venous insufficiency or oedema. Here, it is important to achieve the right compression pressure. In this article, we will show you step by step how to do that.
Always the right pressure with Heka Dur 2
The 2-layer compression system Heka Dur 2 makes bandaging much easier.
Thanks to the handy indicator, you always achieve the right target pressure. This ensures the best possible treatment result!
The importance of the right pressure
Achieving the right pressure is incredibly important for the effectiveness of treatment. Below, we list some of the reasons why the right pressure is so important.
Improved blood circulation - Do you apply the right pressure? Then blood flow from the legs to the heart is promoted. This reduces pressure in the blood vessels and improves blood circulation.
Reduction of swelling - Compressive bandaging helps reduce oedema (fluid accumulation) in the legs. The bandages exert pressure. This prevents fluid from leaving the blood vessels. It also promotes the drainage of lymph fluid.
Support muscle pump - The pressure of the bandages causes each muscle movement to act like a pump. This helps drain fluid and waste products from the leg. This is especially important in patients who exercise a lot, as it increases the effectiveness of the treatment.
How do you achieve the right pressure?
Achieving the right compression pressure can be challenging. Did you know that research has shown that only 12.4% of nurses can achieve the correct pressure without an indicator (2017, International Wound Journal)? So do you want to achieve the right pressure? Then an indicator is a very useful tool. The shape of the indicator changes when the right pressure is reached.
Using the right application technique is also incredibly important. By doing so, you ensure effective treatment. It also often increases patient comfort and mobility.
Bandaging protocol
Below we give you a step-by-step guide to bandaging with the two-layer compression system Heka Dur 2. This way you will always achieve the right pressure!
Step #1 - The correct position of the foot and leg
Make sure the foot is at a 90-degree angle to the lower leg. Good posture ensures that compression is evenly distributed. This is essential for the effectiveness of compression therapy.
Step #2- Apply the first layer to the foot
Start by applying the first layer at the base of the toes. CAUTION! Make sure not to bandage the toes with it. This will prevent discomfort and possible circulation problems.
Step #3 - Cover the heel
Apply the bandage over the back of the foot after two rounds of fixation. Cover the heel by applying the bandage in a figure-of-eight shape. It is important to apply enough padding at the area around the ankle. CAUTION! Do not stretch the bandage while applying it to the foot.
Step #4 - Apply the bandage around the leg
Apply the first layer in a spiral around the leg. Start above the ankle with an overlap of 50%. The bandage should be fully stretched from this step onwards.
Step #5 - Stop bandaging
Stop bandaging when you have about two
fingers below the hollow of the knee. Tear off the excess bandage. Since the bandage is self-adhesive, additional fixation is not necessary.
Step #6 - additional padding (optional)
The excess bandage can be used for additional padding. For example, at the edge where the foot joins the shin and at the Achilles tendon. This can provide extra comfort for the patient.
Step #7 - Start with the second layer
Again, start bandaging at the base of the toes. Up to this point, the indicator should not yet
be stretched.
Step #8 - Cover the heel
Cover the heel by applying the bandage in an eight-shape. Take care not to create folds. Folds can cause pressure points and should therefore be avoided.
Step #9 - Apply the second layer around the leg
Start above the ankle with an overlap of 50%. Stretch
extend the bandage from this step. until the indicator shows a square with sides of equal length. This
indicates that the correct compression pressure has been reached.
Step #10 - Stop bandaging
Stop bandaging when you have about two
fingers below the hollow of the knee. Tear off the excess bandage. Press the bandage firmly over the entire leg. This will ensure optimal adhesion.
Always the right pressure with Heka Dur 2
The 2-layer compression system Heka Dur 2 makes bandaging much easier.
Thanks to the handy indicator, you always achieve the right target pressure. This ensures the best possible treatment result!
Always have a bandage protocol to hand?
Afraid you might forget something while bandaging? No problem! We have compiled all the steps for you in an easy-to-understand bandage protocol. Download it for free via the buttons below!
Disclaimer
Van Heek Medical heeft dit blogartikel met de grootst mogelijke zorgvuldigheid geschreven met behulp van externe deskundigen. Ondanks de betrachte zorgvuldigheid staat Van Heek Medical er niet voor in dat de informatie volledig, juist en/of up-to-date is. De informatie is uitsluitend bedoeld als algemene informatie. Van Heek Medical is niet aansprakelijk, uit welke hoofde dan ook, voor schade die voortvloeit uit en/of verband houdt met de informatie. Deze informatie is nimmer een vervanging voor medische zorg. Ieder mens is uniek. Kennelijke vergissingen of kennelijke fouten binden Van Heek Medical niet.
