The purpose of applying a bandage to a minor wound is to

• A. Stop bleeding during bleeding
• B. Protect the wound after bleeding has stopped
• C. Make the wound bleed more
• D. To speed healing by rubbing

Answer: (B)

After the initial bleeding has stopped, a bandage provides a protective barrier over the wound. It keeps dirt and bacteria out, reduces irritation from clothing or surfaces, and helps keep the dressing in place so the wound can heal cleanly. It isn’t used to stop bleeding—that step comes first—and it shouldn’t be used to make the wound bleed again or to speed healing by rubbing, since rubbing irritates tissue and can delay recovery.