What is the primary purpose of a bandage?

The primary purpose of a bandage is to hold a wound dressing or splint in place. A bandage is designed to secure a dressing over a wound, ensuring that it remains in contact with the injured area, which helps maintain a clean environment and aids in the healing process. Additionally, in situations where a splint is applied to stabilize an injury, the bandage plays a crucial role in keeping the splint securely in position, preventing further movement of the injured limb.

While protecting a wound from infection is an important consideration, that function is primarily fulfilled by the dressing itself rather than the bandage. Pain relief is a function related more to medication or other treatments, and immobilization may be a goal in some first aid situations, but it does not capture the fundamental role of a bandage in care. Therefore, the emphasis on holding dressings or splints in place accurately reflects the bandage's primary role in first aid management.