Page 19 - JSOM Winter 2025

FIGURE 1 Creation of improvised burn dressing.

As with other forms of nonsterile cellophane used for burn by a moist dressing and then a waterproof barrier. Plastic pack-
dressings, care must be taken to apply the dressing loosely to aging wrap is an ideal material to maintain a clean, waterproof
prevent restriction of circulation in the event of swelling of the barrier and allow visualization of underlying bowel or dressings
burnt tissue. (Figure 3). A loose sheet can be applied, or the wrap can be used
to provide a loose circumferential abdominal bandage.
Splinting
Plastic packaging wrap allows for the rapid improvised secur- Casualty Card
ing of limb splints using dedicated or improvised splint materi- Packaging wrap can be used to secure the casualty card to
als (Figure 2). As with alternative crepe or elasticated bandages the patient (e.g., to the forearm) to prevent loss of key patient
used for securing splints, care must be taken to avoid over- information (Figure 4).
tightening the bandage, and frequent reassessment of the in-
jured limb must be performed. Furthermore, packaging wrap Endotracheal Tube Tie
allows visualization of dressings applied to any underlying Packaging wrap can be stretched to an inelastic strand and
wounds in open (compound) fractures. then used to secure endotracheal tubes if the patient has un-
dergone orotracheal intubation or front of neck surgical crico-
Bowel Evisceration thyrotomy. The plastic-on-plastic adherence provides a secure
1
TCCC guidelines advise that, in the event of penetrating abdom- grip when pulled tight to prevent displacement of endotra-
inal injury, any bowel outside the abdomen should be covered cheal tubes (Figure 5).

FIGURE 2 Forearm splint and sling and swathe and leg splint.

Medical Uses for Plastic Packaging | 17