What type of dressing should be used for a large wound?

Using a sterile, non-stick dressing with direct pressure is essential for managing a large wound effectively. This type of dressing helps to minimize the risk of infection, as it prevents contaminants from entering the wound while also being gentle on the injured area during removal. Applying direct pressure is crucial in controlling bleeding, especially with larger wounds, as it helps stabilize the situation until professional medical assistance can be obtained.

In contrast, relying solely on a cloth bandage may not provide the sterile environment necessary for wound care, especially with larger or deeper wounds, potentially increasing the risk of infection. Choosing any dressing that is available without ensuring its sterility can lead to complications. Using your hand to apply pressure is not a recommended practice because it may not create enough surface area to effectively control bleeding and could introduce contaminants to the wound. Therefore, using a sterile non-stick dressing with direct pressure is the best practice for treating a large wound.