Bandaging for Protection
Protective bandaging may be needed. This is a hot topic, as many are true believers in the benefits of protective bandaging and others are just as certain it inhibits development, increases the risk for developing contractures and is miserably uncomfortable and hot. The choice must be made by the individual or the caregiver. A reasonable recommendation is to evaluate the skin's response to being bandage free. Try a small area at first; perhaps the forearm or the upper arm. If no blisters occur when these bandages have been removed, try removing more the next time. Many parents report when they finally had the courage to remove the protective bandages, the skin reacted surprisingly well, with little to no blister formation. Some reports have not been as positive and protective bandages were reapplied immediately.
No tape or adhesives should be applied to EB skin.
Maintaining a cool environment is helpful because EB skin may be more fragile in the heat and humidity.
Lubricating the skin with an ointment such as Vaseline or Aquaphor will reduce trauma and may help to reduce friction.
