CHAPTER XIX
DRESSINGS AND BANDAGING; SOLUTIONS AND OINTMENTS; SKIN GRAFTING
DRESSINGS
Dressings. These may be either dry or wet.
Dry dressings consist of gauze and bandage or of cotton and collodion (the cocoon dressing.)
The most convenient form in which sterile gauze can be obtained is in small squares in individual envelopes. Large packages are contaminated with the first opening and are inconvenient.
The cocoon dressing is occlusive and should never be applied over an infected area. It is applicable to sensitive areas for protection, and to operated areas not liable to infection.
Protective varnishes, such as collodion, compound tincture of benzoin, or pure ichthyol, are useful where little protection is indicated.