Is the waterproof Band-Aid really waterproof?

There are many types of Band-Aids, including ordinary Band-Aids and waterproof Band-Aids. Although it is called a waterproof Band-Aid, it is only waterproof for a short time. If it comes into contact with water for a long time, this waterproof Band-Aid will be useless. Therefore, when using this waterproof Band-Aid, you should also avoid frequent contact with water and try to avoid contact with water as much as possible. Let us learn more about this aspect.

Is the waterproof band-aid really waterproof?

Using a waterproof Band-Aid does not mean you can stay in contact with water for a long time. If the Band-Aid is not tightly attached to the skin around the wound, especially in special areas such as fingertips, knees and elbows, it will no longer be "waterproof".

Correct approach: When using waterproof Band-Aids, try to avoid contact with water, pay attention to observing and protecting the wound, and replace Band-Aids that are soaked in water in a timely manner.

Misunderstandings about using Band-Aids

Myth 1: Band-Aids are a panacea

Band-Aids are not a panacea and are not suitable for all injuries. Generally speaking, Band-Aids are mainly used for small and shallow wounds, especially for cuts that are neat, clean, do not bleed much and do not require sutures, such as knife cuts, cuts, glass scratches, etc.

Correct approach: Strictly grasp the indications. It is not advisable to use Band-Aids for larger, deeper wounds or those with foreign objects. In this case, you should go to the hospital for treatment immediately. It is not advisable to use Band-Aids on contaminated or infected wounds, such as severe skin abrasions, burns, etc. As for folliculitis, boils, purulent infected wounds and various skin diseases, it is even more inappropriate to use Band-Aids.

Myth 2: Band-Aids can be applied anywhere

When we use Band-Aids, we always try to be convenient and just put them on casually. This is incorrect.

Correct way: Before using a Band-Aid, first check whether there is any dirt left in the wound. If there is any dirt, clean the wound with sterilized saline solution before applying the Band-Aid. If the wound is caused by a nail or other object and is relatively deep, you should go to the hospital immediately for treatment and receive a tetanus antitoxin injection. Secondly, after opening the Band-Aid, avoid contaminating the surface. When applying the patch, the medicine surface must be aligned with the wound, and after applying it, apply slight pressure on both sides of the wound.

Myth 3: Band-Aids can last forever

Putting a Band-Aid on a wound does not mean that everything is fine, nor can it be left there for a long time and ignored.

The correct approach: First, pay attention to changes in the wound. If you feel a throbbing pain similar to a pulse or secretion at the wound after using a Band-Aid for 24 hours, you should open it and observe whether there is redness, swelling, heat or pain around the wound. If so, it means the wound has become infected and you should seek medical attention immediately. Second, pay attention to protecting the wound. After using a Band-Aid, do not pinch the wound frequently with your hands. Keep the wound as active as possible to avoid collision and prevent it from splitting. Third, Band-Aids should not be used for too long and should be changed once a day.