Why do preppers need a roll of stretch wrap self-adhering bandages in their first aid kit?

A first aid kit is an essential part of your preps. When SHTF, your first aid kit might save your life. (h/t to ModernSurvivalBlog.com)

For stopping a wound from bleeding out, keep a roll or two of stretch wrap self-adherent bandages in your first aid kit.

Stretch wrap self-adherent bandages are suitable for holding gauze material in place against a wound, especially around an appendage.

A self-adherent bandage stretches and adheres to itself when you wrap it. You can easily apply it to yourself if you have no one to help you.

The self-adhering wrap is made from a unique material that can be pulled as tight or as loose as you want. When treating initial bleeding, pull the wrap tight.

How to stop a bleeding wound

To stop a wound from bleeding out, you must first “plug it” with a clean gauze or a piece of clean material. Place the gauze over the wound, then wrap it snug with some wrapping material. You must secure the gauze plug in place.

Next, apply pressure on the wound; wrap the gauze tight enough to apply pressure that will help stop the bleeding. If needed, press down on the wound to apply more pressure. (Related: Safety first: Tips for stocking your First Aid kit before SHTF.)

When treating traumatic injury, use an Israeli bandage. Unlike regular bandages, an Israel bandage has three unique features:

• Sterile non-adhering dressing that lets you remove the bandage without reopening the wound.
• Pressure applicator (a pressure bar) that aligns over the wound to help treat bleeding.
• Closure bar that secures the bandage after it’s wrapped. The closure bar is also used to apply additional pressure.

If you need to use an Israeli bandage to stop or minimize traumatic wound bleeding by applying pressure, pair it with a “QuikClot” sponge for best results.

How to treat moderate bleeding wounds

You will need ordinary gauze and wrap to treat minor to moderate bleeding wounds. But if you have a stretch bandage, you can treat an injury the same way Ken Jorgustin did in his article for Modern Survival Blog.

Jorgustin was working on something when the screwdriver he was using slipped and accidentally pierced his palm. While there was no immediate blood, he left a trail of blood as he walked to his home to search for a first aid kit.

This also highlights the importance of keeping first aid kits in accessible locations so you can treat an injury immediately when SHTF. Jorgustin’s wife treated his wound with a bottle of hydrogen peroxide (three percent, 4×4 gauze, and a roll of stretch wrap self-adhering bandage.

First, Jorgustin’s wife poured some hydrogen peroxide on the bleeding wound over the sink. The liquid bubbled and fizzled as it cleaned out the wound.

Next, Jorgustin himself folded the 4×4 gauze onto the wound. Since the bandage is self-adhering and it can stretch, you can easily wrap it around a wound. Once done, the bandage will stay in place even without using tape or other items. Pull the bandage tight to apply pressure, then relax it once the bandage is secured.

You can buy stretch wrap self-adherent bandages at a local drug store or on online stores.

Visit SurvivalMedicine.news for more tips on prepping first aid supplies that can help address minor medical emergencies.

Sources include:

ModernSurvivalBlog.com 1

ModernSurvivalBlog.com 2