When packing wounds, gauze should extend how many inches above the skin?

When packing wounds, gauze should extend how many inches above the skin?

• A. 0-1 inch
• B. 1-2 inches
• C. 2-3 inches
• D. 3-4 inches

Answer: (B)

Packing a wound with gauze aims to fill the wound cavity and create direct pressure to tamponade bleeding. Gauze extending about one to two inches above the skin provides enough material to fill the wound while still giving you a graspable edge for confirming control and applying the final dressing. This amount helps ensure thorough packing and stable pressure; too little extension risks underpacking, while too much adds bulk and can complicate dressing application. So, 1–2 inches above the skin is the practical balance for effective field hemorrhage control.

Packing a wound with gauze aims to fill the wound cavity and create direct pressure to tamponade bleeding. Gauze extending about one to two inches above the skin provides enough material to fill the wound while still giving you a graspable edge for confirming control and applying the final dressing. This amount helps ensure thorough packing and stable pressure; too little extension risks underpacking, while too much adds bulk and can complicate dressing application. So, 1–2 inches above the skin is the practical balance for effective field hemorrhage control.