Bandages - UNITAF Force Manual (FM)

FM/G85 - Bandages

Guide

FM/BG-436 - Introduction to Bandages

Guide

All personnel are equipped with bandages to provide initial treatment for wounds until they can receive more advanced medical care. There are four distinct types of bandages, each varying in the time required for application and the duration of effectiveness.

Elastic bandages are recommended for situations where quick application is crucial, despite their lower durability.
QuikClot bandages are best for long-lasting wound protection, offering the highest endurance.
Packing bandages present a balanced option, optimising for application speed, wound coverage, and durability.

Guide

FM/BG-437 - Field Dressings (Basic Bandage)

Guide

Field dressings also known as Bandage (Basic) are the most fundamental type of bandages available to us, primarily used for managing low-priority wounds quickly, as well as for treating crush and puncture wounds effectively.

Above: A Field Dressing as seen in the inventory

Guide

FM/BG-438 - Elastic Bandages

Guide

Elastic bandages are valued for their rapid application and effectiveness in temporarily closing wounds. They are often the preferred choice in scenarios involving severely injured individuals or mass casualty incidents because of their speed of use. However, their low durability means they must be replaced frequently. Since they do not promote blood coagulation, once they come off, bleeding is likely to restart.

Above: A Elastic Bandage as seen in the inventory

Guide

FM/BG-439 - Packing Bandages

Guide

Packing bandages, although not quite as efficient as elastic bandages in closing wounds, offer significantly greater durability. This feature makes them ideal for situations where a medic is unable to suture wounds promptly. Like elastic bandages, packing bandages also do not promote blood coagulation.

Above: A Packing Bandage as seen in the inventory

Guide

FM/BG-440 - QuickClot Bandages

Guide

QuikClot bandages are notably less efficient at closing wounds compared to elastic bandages, requiring more time and patience for application. This makes them a slower option than both elastic and packing bandages. However, QuikClot bandages offer significant advantages: they are durable and facilitate blood coagulation, allowing for a "set and forget" approach to wound care. This characteristic is especially valuable in scenarios with fewer wounds or when Combat Life Savers (CLS) or medical personnel are not immediately available. It's important to note, however, that QuikClot bandages are slightly less effective on crush and laceration wounds.

Above: A QuickClot Bandage as seen in the inventory