subject: Which Gauze Sponge Is Right For You? [print this page] There are a lot of different types of gauze sponges on the market for all types of applications and uses, so if you have an injury, a wound or need a gauze sponge for some other reason it can be difficult to determine the size, shape and qualities that would be right for you. They all have different qualities, different sizes, different features and different uses.
The first thing you need to consider is the sizes that are available to you. Whether you need smaller ones or larger, thicker ones, the most basic size that is sufficient for most people is a 4x 4 size. There are some that are tiny 1 square size and those that are a much larger 8 x 4 size. In addition to taking the different sizes into consideration, you should also take into account your needs for either sterile or non sterile supplies. Of course if you have any type of an open wound that you are dressing you will want sterile supplies to help you minimize the chance of infection. If you are using the gauze sponges as a cushion for whatever reason and you are not using them on an open wound, you dont have to spring for the sterile ones. Some of the products are packaged as individually wrapped to maintain sterility and convenience, and others are just in a box together so that you can just pull them out as they are needed.
Most of the popular products that are used for first aid uses are made with multi ply construction, for example some of them are 3 or 4 ply and other, thicker ones are 12 ply or more. These superior designs are used by hospitals, clinics, doctors offices and private practitioners. Convenient for aseptic handling, some of the most popular ones that are used by professionals are those that are packaged two per peel down pouch, which should be packaged in open trays for easy access. When the ply is thicker, such as in the 12 ply variety, they are highly absorbent, which makes this type of gauze sponge perfect for oozing or weeping wounds. Not only do professionals in different settings rely on them, but no home, vehicle or hikers first aid kit should be without at least a few of the dressings, in case of an injury.
In addition to first aid applications, there are several other reasons and uses for these handy little surgical dressings, and are good for just about anything that needs wound protection and maximum absorbency. The cotton filled ones provide maximum absorption, and they are available in a wide range of sizes and piles. It is usually recommended that you purchase ones with no exposed raw edges or gauze sponges that have cut edges folded in for maximum comfort.
