Smith & Nephew Triangular Bandage (96cmx135cm)

Smith & Nephew Triangular Bandage (96cmx135cm) is a large, non-woven fabric bandage cut into a triangle shape, supplied as a single reusable piece measuring 96cm along the long edge and 135cm along the hypotenuse. It is a first-aid fabric item rather than a sterile wound dressing, made from a soft, breathable, latex-free fabric that can be folded into a broad strip or a narrow strip.

The single piece of fabric can be left as a full triangle, folded lengthwise into a broad strip, or folded again into a narrower strip. Because it is fabric rather than a single-use adhesive product, it can be washed and reused a number of times before it needs replacing.

The bandage works purely through its shape and the way it is folded and tied, not through any chemical or adhesive action. Left as a full triangle, the fabric can be draped over the body and tied to form a sling shape. Folded lengthwise into a broad-fold or narrow-fold strip, the same piece of fabric can instead be wrapped around a limb, with the tension in the fabric giving a gentle, even, adjustable wrap.

For an arm sling, open the bandage into a full triangle, slide it under the injured forearm (bent across the chest at roughly a right angle), bring the two long ends up and tie them at the side of the neck on the uninjured side, then fold the point in at the elbow and secure with a pin or by tucking it in. For a broad-fold bandage, fold the triangle in half lengthwise (and again if a narrower strip is needed) and wrap it around the limb over a splint or primary dressing, tying it with a reef knot away from bony areas. After applying either method, check that the fingers or toes below the bandage stay warm, pink, and can be moved, and loosen the bandage promptly if they become cold, pale, numb, or swollen.

• Not applicable — this is not a medicine.

As a fabric first-aid item rather than a medicine, this bandage does not carry a pharmaceutical expiry date. It can be reused many times as long as the fabric remains intact, clean, and free of fraying or tears; replace it once the fabric weakens, stains persist after washing, or it is heavily soiled from an injury.

Store folded flat or rolled in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Wash and fully dry the bandage between uses, especially after it has been in contact with a wound, and keep it with a first-aid kit so it is easy to find in an emergency.

• Not applicable — this fabric bandage has no adhesive or medicated component, so it is not expected to cause skin side effects with normal use.

• Do not use as a substitute for proper medical splinting or emergency care if a fracture, dislocation, or severe injury is suspected — seek medical attention promptly.
• Avoid wrapping so tightly that it restricts blood flow, particularly in young children, elderly users, or people with diabetes or circulation problems.
• Do not apply directly over an open wound without a suitable primary dressing underneath, as the bandage itself is not sterile.

• Not applicable — this is not a medicine.

• Learn the different folding techniques — full triangle, broad-fold, and narrow-fold — from a first-aid course or guide.
• Always check the colour, warmth, and sensation of fingers or toes after applying, and loosen if they change.
• Wash and dry the bandage thoroughly after each use, especially if it touched a wound.
• Keep a spare in your home, car, or travel first-aid kit, as it folds compactly.
• Use a safety pin or a firm reef knot to keep the sling or wrap secure during movement.
• Replace the bandage if the fabric becomes thin, frayed, or stained beyond washing.

Precautions: This triangular bandage is a first-aid support tool, not a sterile dressing — always place a clean or sterile primary dressing over an open wound before wrapping the bandage around it. Take care not to tie it so tightly that it cuts off circulation, and reassess a sling or wrap regularly, especially in the first hour after an injury.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Seek medical attention if you suspect a fracture, dislocation, or significant soft-tissue injury, if the limb below the bandage becomes numb, cold, or discoloured, or if a wound under the bandage shows signs of infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or discharge.