10.12 Finger Tip Dressing
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agk's Library of Common Simple Emergencies

To provide a complete non-adherent compression 
dressing for an injured finger tip, first cut 
out an L-shaped segment from a strip of 
polyurethane or oil-emulsion (Adaptic) gauze. 
Cover the gauze with antibiotic ointment to 
provide occlusion and prevent adhesion.

What to do:
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- Place the tip of the finger over the short 
    leg of the gauze and then fold it over the 
    top of the finger.
- Take the long leg of the gauze and wrap it 
    around the tip of the finger.
- For absorption and compression, fluff a 
    cotton gauze pad and apply it over the end 
    of the finger.
- Cover with roller or tube gauze and secure 
    with adhesive tape.

What not to do:
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- Do not place tight circumferential wraps of 
    tape around a finger, especially if you 
    anticipate swelling. They may act as a 
    tourniquet and lead to vascular compromise. 
    Use caution applying tube gauze: two to 
    four layers will suffice.

Illustration
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img/cse1012.gif

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 from Buttaravoli & Stair: COMMON SIMPLE EMERGENCIES
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 1.202.237.0971 fax 1.202.244.8393 electra@clark.net
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