You have been treated with a Sling or Bandage. You have had a thorough examination and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following instructions will aid your recovery.
Slings
Slings are used to support and protect injured arms, shoulders, wrists and hands. There are 3 types: the broad arm sling, the high arm sling and the collar and cuff.
Broad Arm Sling
This is used for arm injuries or sometimes for shoulder injuries. When correctly worn, the hand should be slightly higher than the elbow. The edge of the sling should lie at the bottom of the little finger, leaving the fingers outside.
High Arm Sling
This is used to keep the hand and forearm up to reduce swelling in wrist and hand injuries.
Reef knot
Always tie the ends of the sling with a reef knot, as it lies flat, will not slip and is easy to untie. Make sure the knot does not press onto a bone or into the skin at the back of the neck.
Bandages
These maintain direct pressure over a dressing to control bleeding, hold dressings or splints in position, provide support for a limb or joint and, occasionally, restrict movement. They should be firm enough to hold the dressing in position, control bleeding or prevent movement, but not so tight as to interfere with the circulation.
Check bandages frequently to make sure they are not becoming too tight as the tissues swell. They should be applied evenly to prevent swelling at either end of the bandage.
Tubular bandages
These are used to treat sprained ligaments or tendons. The light support offers pain relief, comfort, control of muscle spasm and also protection from further damage during strenuous or repetitive activities.
You should:
- Remove rings and other tight objects as soon as possible, as swelling often occurs.
- Rest the limb and keep it raised up to help reduce swelling.
- Remove the bandage at night and when washing.
You should not:
- Double over the end like a sock when applying the bandage.
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