What are the three layers of a bandage and the purpose of each?

• A. Inner: cohesive; Middle: padding; Outer: conforming
• B. Inner: padding - absorbent support; Middle: conforming - holds in place; Outer: cohesive - provides extra support and seals everything in
• C. Inner: conforming; Middle: cohesive; Outer: padding
• D. Inner: padding; Middle: cohesive; Outer: conforming

Answer: (B)

The three-layer bandage works by placing the right function with each layer. The innermost layer is padding that sits directly on the wound to cushion and absorb exudate, helping protect the dressing and prevent sticking to the wound. The middle layer is a conforming wrap that holds the padding in place and provides light, even compression without sticking to the skin or wound. The outer layer is a cohesive wrap that grips to itself, not to the skin, to secure the bandage, offer extra support, and seal the edges to keep moisture and dirt out. If the roles were swapped, the dressing could shift, leak, or come loose, reducing protection and effectiveness.