What is the purpose of an open hand bandage?

An open hand bandage serves primarily to hold a dressing in place. This type of bandage is designed to secure a protective covering over a wound without applying excessive pressure, making it essential for keeping the dressing intact and ensuring that it remains effective in absorbing fluids and protecting the area from external contaminants. It allows the wound to breathe, promoting healing while still maintaining necessary coverage.

While compression, full coverage, and swelling reduction are important considerations in wound care, these functions are generally more associated with other types of bandaging techniques, such as pressure bandages or complete dressings. An open hand bandage focuses on securing the dressing effectively without restricting circulation or causing discomfort.