As much as we try to avoid injuries, they can still happen to the best of us. Sometimes, all it takes is a small cut or a scrape to throw our day off. Luckily self-adhesive medical tapes are readily available to speed up our healing process and restore our routine promptly.
So, what exactly is a medical tape? Simply put, it is an adhesive tape designed for medical purposes. It has various types, made from different materials depending on the intended use and specific medical application requirements.
Purposes of Medical Adhesive Tapes
The main purpose of medical adhesive tape is to:
- Secure dressings or bandages in place, so they don’t move around and cause further damage.
- Used to attach medical devices, such as catheters or IV lines.
- Essential in any first aid kit.
Now that we know what medical adhesive tape is, let’s look at the different types of medical adhesive tapes available in the market today.
Types of Medical Adhesive Tapes
Medical and surgical procedures require specific types of medical-grade adhesive tapes. Understanding the appropriate skin-safe adhesive for a particular wound or for post-surgical care is essential to speed up the healing process. Here are some of the most common medical adhesives you will find in your local pharmacies:
Paper Tape
This medical tape is commonly used due to its thin and gentle-on-skin material. Most paper medical adhesives are microporous, allowing breathability and flexibility to a certain degree. They are often hypoallergenic and recommended for elderly patients. Paper tapes are easily torn, making it convenient to bring on emergency first aid kits.
Cloth Tape
Made from a woven fabric material, this medical tape is stronger and more durable than paper tape. It is used to secure heavier dressings and immobilize joints. Notably, it is highly resistant to water and sweat. This makes it an ideal choice to tie splints in place when administering first aid for fractures and sprains.
Foam Tape
This medical adhesive tape has a soft, foam-like material that provides extra cushioning and support. It is well-suited for securing dressings on areas of the body that experience frequent movements, such as elbows and knees.
Transparent Tape
This tape is made from a clear, plastic material nearly invisible on the skin. It has skin-safe plastic backings that give it a level of waterproofing. It is commonly utilized to secure dressings on the face or other visible areas of the body.
Now that we know the different types of medical adhesive tapes, let’s talk about how to use them.
How to Use Medical-Grade Adhesives for Skin
Before applying the tape, clean the area around the wound. Thorough cleaning will help prevent infection and ensures that the tape sticks properly. Once the area is clean and dry, select the appropriate type of tape based on the type and location of the wound.
When applying the tape, make sure it’s not too tight or too loose. It should be snug enough to hold the dressing in place, but not so tight that it impedes circulation or causes discomfort. If you’re using cloth tape or foam tape, use scissors to cut it to the right size.
Change the dressing and tape regularly to prevent infection and promote healing. Depending on the severity of the wound, you may need to change it every day or every few days. When removing the tape, be gentle and slow to avoid causing further discomfort or damage to the skin.
Right Medical Tape Plus Reputable Brand Equals Faster Healing
Medical tape is a simple yet indispensable tool for anyone who wants to stay prepared for injuries and accidents. By knowing the different types of medical adhesive tapes and how to use them properly, you can help ensure that wounds heal quickly and without complications.
Another crucial way to ensure faster and more effective wound healing is to source your medical adhesive supplies only from a reputable supplier.
DermaMed Coatings Company is the global leading supplier of medical-grade adhesives for the skin. We offer a wide range of products, including woven and non-woven medical tapes, breathable films, absorbents, foam adhesives, transfer adhesives, and polyurethane tapes.
Are you looking for excellent medical-grade adhesives to stock your store and pharmacies with? Contact us today!