Re: [Paddlewise] First Aid

Allison Corning wrote:

> Brad said
>
> "It's a 3M product called "Tegaderm" and is a sterile film like thick Saran
> wrap and it comes in a flat square you can cut to fit. It clings to oozing
> wounds and keeps them moist."
>
> Is this something which is also easy to get OFF the wound at the end of the
> day?  Where would I find it- in general first aid sections of stores, or is
> it something you have to special order? I'm somewhat famous for falling off
> rocks, bikes, piers, whatever, and would love to be able to glue myself back
> together more easily...

I've used Tegaderm since I've first been able to get my hands on it.  It has been
described as the "Gore-Tex of bandages".   It's waterproof and breathable.
The good thing about it for paddlers is its ability to stay on.  You don't want
or need to take it off at the end of the day.  It stays on and protects the wound
while letting it breath and heal.  I had to use some a couple of years ago while
paddling the Nahanni river and it stayed put for about five days under a
farmer john (including a deliberate swim at the end of a long hot day).  Its ability
to keep out dirty or salty water should be appreciated by kayakers on extended
trips.  It's too expensive to consider as a substitute for bandaids in the city.
It is also kinda large and due to the way only the edge has adhesive, it can't
be cut to fit.  You should be able to get it in most good pharmacies.

Brad's comment about oozing wounds may be misleading.  Tegaderm is not
intended for "seeping wounds" (3M'S term) but rather for dry-ish wounds.

Mike

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