What is the protocol for using duct tape vs medical tape if duct tape is all you have and what do you mean by not applying circumferentially? How much damage can duct tape do?

I’ll stick my 2 cents here:

What is meant by circumferentially is all around the limb, in such away as it may act as constricting band and prevent adequate blood return resulting in edema/swelling and possible tissue damage. Gauze and gauze–like products like Kling and Curlex are bandages (used to secure a dressing i.e. 2X2, 4x4), which are generally wrapped circumferentially, but over long surface area, distributing the compression over a greater surface area. Duct tape and even medical surgical tape when applied is generally isolated to a narrow band to secure the gauze/gauze like product, if you completely go around the limb with the tape you can create a constricting band, so never completely make a complete wrap with the tape. Only use enough tape to secure the bandage.

Duct tape can be used if medical tape is unavailable, but caution should be used if it applied directly to the skin, as it might cause major irritation (since the glue is not designed for contact with human skin) and removal can result skin damage especially in the elderly who tend to have skin breakdown very easily, just handling them too roughly can result in major skin sloughing and bruising.

Pete

Thanks Pete, that's what I thought when I read MDinana's comment but wanted clarification. Duct tape is good stuff, but like any other tool it can be used incorrectly.

Thanks for picking up my slack here! Ditto Pete.

Duct tape is pretty much like PP said. Another thing to worry about is people with tape allergies (it happens). Plus, you know that when wet it may not stick well. Try sticking it on a bloody wound and you may be disappointed.

But it's "supposedly" great for securing a patient to a backboard! We were allowed to do that in CA for a few years.