Smith & Nephew Elastic Crepe Bandage (Heavy Weight) 1s

Smith & Nephew Elastic Crepe Bandage (Heavy Weight) is a woven elastic bandage supplied as a single roll (1s). According to the product information, it is made from high-quality cotton, polyester and natural rubber yarns, which together give the bandage its stretch, comfort and durability. It is a bandage device with no active medicinal ingredients and is available over the counter.

The heavy weight designation refers to a thicker, firmer crepe weave than lighter-weight crepe bandages, so it holds its shape and tension more firmly when it is wrapped. Because the bandage contains natural rubber yarn, it is not suitable for anyone with a natural rubber latex allergy. The width and length of the roll vary by pack, so please check the product page and packaging for the dimensions supplied.

Elastic bandages are only effective and comfortable when they are applied with even, moderate tension and checked regularly, since a bandage that is wrapped too tightly can restrict blood flow. Fastening clips or tape may or may not be included in the pack, so please check the contents before you order. Our pharmacist team can advise on the most suitable bandage type if you are unsure which one to choose.

Make sure the skin is clean and dry before you apply the bandage. If there is a wound, cover it first with a clean dressing.

Start wrapping at the point furthest from the body, for example from the toes towards the knee or from the fingers towards the elbow, and work upwards.

Hold the roll so that it unrolls naturally, and keep the bandage lightly stretched, applying firm but even tension with each turn.

Overlap each turn by about half the width of the bandage, so that the wrap lies flat without wrinkles or gaps.

Secure the end with a bandage clip or tape. Do not use pins, as they may injure the skin or the wearer.

After applying, check the toes or fingers beyond the bandage. They should remain warm and a normal colour, with no numbness, tingling or increased pain. If they do not, loosen or remove the bandage straight away and re-apply it more loosely.

Not applicable — this is a bandage device and not a medicine, so there is no dose. Apply with firm but even tension, not tight enough to restrict circulation. Remove the bandage and re-apply it at least once a day or as directed by a doctor or pharmacist, and do not wear it while sleeping unless a healthcare professional has advised it.

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. Keep the bandage in its original packaging until use, and keep out of reach of small children.

• Common: Mild skin redness, itching or irritation where the bandage sits against the skin, especially in warm weather.
• Common: A feeling of warmth or pressure under the bandage.
• Serious: Numbness, tingling, coldness, blue or pale discolouration of the toes or fingers, increasing pain, or swelling beyond the bandage. These are signs that the bandage is too tight and blood flow is restricted; remove it straight away and seek medical advice if symptoms continue.
• Serious: Swelling of the face or lips, a widespread rash or difficulty breathing. This can be an allergic reaction, including to natural rubber latex, and needs emergency medical attention.

• Do not use if you have a known allergy to natural rubber latex or to any component of the bandage.
• Do not apply to a limb with suspected deep vein thrombosis (blood clot), severe swelling or severe, unexplained pain without medical advice.
• Do not apply directly over open or infected wounds; cover the wound with a suitable dressing first.
• Do not use as a substitute for medical assessment of a suspected fracture or serious injury.

• Not applicable — this is a bandage device and not a medicine. No drug or food interactions are known.
• If you apply creams, gels or other topical products under the bandage, ask a pharmacist first, as covering them with a bandage can increase their absorption or cause skin irritation.

• Always start wrapping from the point furthest from the body and work upwards, rather than starting in the middle.
• Check the fingers or toes beyond the bandage regularly for warmth, colour and feeling.
• Re-apply the bandage if it becomes loose, wrinkled or bunched, as an uneven wrap can create pressure points.
• Do not wear the bandage to bed unless a healthcare professional advises it, as swelling and circulation can change during sleep.
• Wash the bandage as directed on the pack, and let it dry flat away from direct heat to preserve its elasticity.
• Keep a spare bandage at home so that you can swap and wash the bandage in use.

Precautions: Elastic bandages that are applied too tightly can restrict circulation, so check the area beyond the bandage frequently. People with diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation, skin fragility or swelling in the limb should speak with a doctor or pharmacist before use. Because the bandage contains natural rubber, it must not be used by anyone with latex allergy. Do not rely on a bandage alone for a suspected fracture or a severe injury.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: See a doctor promptly if you suspect a fracture, if swelling or pain gets worse, if you cannot put weight on the limb, or if numbness, tingling, coldness or discolouration of the toes or fingers appears. Seek medical help for any signs of an allergic reaction, and ask a pharmacist if you are unsure how tightly to apply the bandage.