Why It's Important to Keep Bandages Dry in the Shower
When you have a wound, cut, or incision that requires a bandage, it's important to keep that bandage dry while showering. Wet bandages can lead to a host of problems that may impede the healing process. A soggy bandage won't properly protect the affected area, and moisture can increase the risk of infection. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to keep your bandage dry in the shower.
Use Waterproof Bandages
One of the easiest ways to keep a bandage dry in the shower is to cover it with a waterproof bandage. These bandages form a protective barrier that prevents water from seeping underneath to the wound. Look for bandages made of plastic or with a built-in adhesive seal around the edges. Some options include:
- Waterproof adhesive bandages: These bandage strips stick securely to the skin and are water resistant.
- Waterproof tape: Special tape made for covering wounds in water. It sticks to both skin and bandages.
- Tegaderm waterproof dressing: A transparent film dressing that protects wounds and IV sites from moisture.
Use a Waterproof Covering
If you don't have waterproof bandages on hand, you can still keep your regular bandage dry with a protective covering such as:
- Plastic wrap: Wrap the plastic tightly around the bandaged area to form a water-resistant barrier.
- Waterproof adhesive bandages: Use extra bandage strips to seal the edges of the original bandage.
- Resealable plastic bag: Cover the site with the bag and seal it just above the bandage.
Make sure to choose a covering method that allows you to keep the wound site visible so you can monitor it for signs of complications.
Keep the Affected Area Out of Water Spray
In addition to protective coverings over your bandage, you'll also want to avoid directly spraying or soaking the site with water in the shower. Here are some tips:
- Angle your body so the bandage faces away from the water.
- Keep the injured area outside the path of the shower stream or spray as much as possible.
- Consider using a detachable shower head and keep water pressure gentle around wounds.
- For bandages on hands or feet, consider wearing waterproof gloves or socks in the shower to add protection.
What to Do if Your Bandage Gets Wet in the Shower
Sometimes despite your best efforts, bandages still get wet in the shower. If this happens, don't panic. Here is what you need to do:
Remove the Wet Bandage
Take off the soggy bandage immediately after your shower. Leaving a damp bandage on increases the temperature and moisture around the wound. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and raises infection risk.
Gently Clean and Dry the Area
Use a soft washcloth with mild soap and warm water to gently clean around the affected area, avoiding scrubbing at the wound itself. Be sure to rinse away all soap residue. Carefully pat dry with a clean towel.
Allow the Skin to Air Dry
After washing and patting dry, allow the area to air dry completely before rebandaging. Wave the spot in front of a fan or point a blow dryer on a cool, low setting to speed up drying time.
Apply Antibiotic Ointment
Before covering with a new, dry bandage, apply antibiotic ointment or cream. This will help prevent infection in case any moisture got trapped under the old bandage. Look for antibiotic formulations containing Bacitracin, Neosporin, or Polysporin.
Re-Cover with a New Dry Bandage
Finish up by securing a new, clean dry bandage over the area. Continue keeping it dry and changing bandages as directed until healing is complete.
Tips for Keeping Wounds Dry in the Shower
It takes some extra planning, but with the right preparation you can keep even heavily bandaged areas dry in the shower. Here are some additional tips:
Choose Moisture-Wicking Bandages
Look for bandages made with moisture-wicking fabric layers closest to the wound. These pull small amounts of moisture away from the skin while blocking water on the outside.
Reinforce Wraps Around Wet Areas
For wounds on notoriously tricky spots like feet and hands, reinforce waterproofing by wrapping the site with a layer of plastic wrap or waterproof tape before adding the shower sock or glove.
Shower With Your Back to the Spray
If the wound is located on your back or another hard-to-cover area, simply face away from the shower stream during your whole wash. Let the water glance off rather than directly hit bandaged spots.
Take Very Quick Showers
The less time you spend directly in the shower spray, the less chance for moisture to seep in. Get in and out efficiently until any wraps or dressings can come off.
Hang a Waterproof Covering Nearby
Keep the plastic bags, plastic wrap, or other waterproof materials you use just outside your shower or tub so they're on hand each time you wash.
When to Call Your Doctor About a Wet Bandage
While wet bandages in the shower are generally harmless if promptly removed and replaced, there are some scenarios where a soggy covering requires a call to your healthcare provider. Seek medical advice if:
- The seal on a Tegaderm transparent dressing has broken and moisture has gotten underneath.
- You notice increasing warmth, swelling, redness, pain, or pus around the affected site after a wet bandage incident.
- The wound smells foul even after washing and applying antibiotic ointment.
- You have a fever over 100°F along with other symptoms suggesting infection.
In some cases antibiotics, steroid creams, or wound debridement may be prescribed if complications arise after water exposure under a bandage. Stay alert to the signs of infection and contact your physician promptly if the area doesn't properly heal.
Focus on Keeping Your Bandage Dry
Trying to shower without getting a bandage wet takes a little planning and consistent care. But maintaining a moisture-free barrier over your wound is essential during the healing process. With the right waterproof coverings and showering technique, keeping your bandage dry is a manageable task.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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