The OLAES Modular 6″ individual dressing by TacMed Solutions is the larger version of the multi-purpose OLAES dressing – for more extensive wounds and wounds on the thigh, arm or torso. It is used by paramedics and people trained in tactical first aid. It is vacuum-packed in sterile, hermetic packaging (approx. 15 × 5 × 4 cm) that can be attached to a vest or helmet or stowed in a backpack.
Inside the compress (15 × 15 cm, non-adherent) there is rolled sterile gauze 10 cm wide and approx. 260 cm long. The gauze can be used to pack the wound and apply precise pressure to the bleeding point – including entry and exit wounds at the same time – and to clean around the wound. The gauze is then covered with the compress and secured with the elastic bandage (15 × 120 cm). Thin transverse hook-and-loop strips on the bandage prevent the dressing from unwinding accidentally.
The dressing also contains an 11 × 11 cm film that can be used as an occlusive dressing for a chest wound and as insulation. The dressing is single-use. A smaller version is the OLAES Modular 4″. The OLAES Modular 6″ individual dressing is worth having in your rescue bag and on your vest.
Why the OLAES Modular 6″ individual dressing?
The wider bandage and larger compress work better for large wounds on the thigh or torso, and the larger film covers a chest wound with room to spare. The OLAES Modular 6″ – practise at our bleeding control training.
You will find other dressings in the category OLAES.
A bleeding wound – how to use the dressing?
Put on gloves and expose the wound. Pack the wound with gauze and press firmly for at least 3 minutes, then apply the compress and wrap with the bandage under pressure, checking circulation below. For massive bleeding from a limb, apply a tourniquet. Do not remove a foreign body embedded in the wound – immobilise it with the dressing. Call for help on 112 – action taken by a bystander can decide whether the casualty survives. The dressings are single-use.
Read more in the article Massive haemorrhage – first aid.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How does it differ from the 4″ version?
It has a wider bandage (15 cm), a larger compress (15 × 15 cm), longer gauze and a larger film (11 × 11 cm).
What is the film for?
It can be used as an occlusive dressing for a chest wound.
Is the dressing sterile?
Yes – sterile, vacuum-packed, single-use.
