How to put on a bandage

[here_we_stand]

This is a very basic question but:

When you put on a bandage or even band-aid over a joint, do you put it on when the extremity is flexed or extended?

I'm sure it depends on what type of bandage etc, but let's use a band-aid for an example.

Thanks!

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

I put it on so the appendage can be used as normally as possible, and so I usually choose one that's made for application over flexing parts. They make 'em, you know-- they are sorta X-shaped, with four tails. If you don't have them, you can put a regular straight one on in a spiral pattern, or there's nothing stopping you from making one out of a 2x2 and some tape.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

elbows and knees can be covered with gauze and then windowpane your tape. Fingers - I would put on extended, for tightness, and try to limit the flexing with gauze tying that finger or toe to the next one.

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

It really just "depends" upon where the bandage is needed. I've been putting bandages on for a very, very long time. I usually put the skin under tension so that when the patient is relaxed, so is the bandage. However when the patient moves around, I don't want excessive tension put on the bandage because that will eventually cause the adhesive to fail and then the bandage falls off. I really like flexible/stretchy bandages because I can mold them to your body's shape and put both the bandage and skin under tension and when you relax, the bandage can "relax" too and still have good contact with the skin.

I'm also very much no stranger to making my own, and sometimes what I created is better that store bought!