A homemade butterfly bandage, also known as a Steri-Strip or a wound closure strip, can be created using tape and scissors to help close small wounds.
Understanding the Need for a Butterfly Bandage
Butterfly bandages are used to help hold the edges of a small wound together to promote healing. Unlike regular bandages that cover a wound, butterfly bandages exert gentle pressure to keep the wound closed, and allow for faster healing while minimizing scar formation.
Materials Needed
- Adhesive tape (e.g., medical tape or athletic tape)
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Guide
Here is how to create an improvised butterfly bandage, as suggested by the provided video reference:
- Prepare the Tape: Cut a strip of tape. The length should be sufficient to cover the wound and extend a bit on either side.
- Make the "H" Cuts: Fold the tape in half. On the folded side, cut two slits from the edge of the tape inwards toward the fold, forming a shape similar to the letter "H".
- According to the video at 2:20, the middle portion of the "H" should be the part that does not adhere to the wound, meaning it will not be sticky.
- Unfold and Apply: Open the tape so the sticky parts are exposed and carefully apply it over the wound with the non-sticky middle portion centered directly over the wound. Press firmly to adhere the sticky portions of the tape on both sides of the wound.
Key Considerations
- Ensure the skin around the wound is clean and dry before applying the bandage.
- The middle part of the improvised bandage will not stick to the wound which prevents it from irritating the wound itself (4:15).
- If the wound is deep, profusely bleeding, or infected, seek professional medical attention immediately.
- Change the bandage daily or more frequently if it becomes wet or soiled.
When To Use a Butterfly Bandage
- Small cuts or lacerations that are not deep or heavily bleeding.
- To close the edges of a wound to encourage healing.
- When regular bandages are insufficient to keep a wound closed.
