Emergency medical kit for wound treatment

Abstract

The present invention relates to an emergency medical kit for the safe and effective treatment of wounds, particularly in high-risk situations, such as haemorrhages and pneumothorax. The kit includes a compression bandage provided with a pressure-applying member attached to the outer surface thereof, thereby facilitating the application of controlled compression. The kit also incorporates secondary dressings, such as sterile pads attached to the bandage, and a pocket for storing additional first-aid devices, such as sterile gauze and an occlusive plastic sheet, thereby allowing practical and efficient protection and treatment of the wound. The bandage further comprises knots and hook-and-loop fasteners for preventing accidental unrolling during use.

Description

MEDICAL EMERGENCY KIT FOR WOUND TREATMENT FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical emergency kit that includes a bandage and one or more first aid devices. Said kit is intended for the treatment of wounds, especially those that present a risk of serious complications, such as hemorrhage and / or pneumothorax. The proposed invention incorporates improvements in design and materials used, aiming for greater effectiveness, practicality, and safety in both application and wound treatment. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Bandages have been used in various ways throughout the years, starting with linen bandages or similar materials for treating wounds and fractures. Originally, the main purpose of bandages was to protect injuries and prevent infection.

[0003] The use of bandages remains a common practice; however, techniques have evolved over time, especially with the introduction of new materials. With advancements in medical practices and the development of materials such as gauze, bandages have become more widely used in hospital and first aid settings.

[0004] Currently, bandages can be made from a variety of materials, each suitable for specific purposes such as protection, immobilization, or compression. The most common materials used in bandage making include gauze, cotton, elastic, synthetic fibers such as polyester or polyamide (e.g., Nylon®), plaster, plastic or waterproof materials, non-woven fabrics, foam and hydrocolloids, adhesives, and / or occlusive materials.

[0005] The choice of materials is made based on the specific needs of the treatment or injury. Bandages can be simple (like adhesive dressings) or more complex (like those used for fracture immobilization).

[0006] The choice of bandage type depends on several factors, such as the type of injury, the location of the wound, and the treatment objective (protection, immobilization, compression, or absorption). The most common materials for covering wounds are gauze and cotton bandages, while elastic or compression bandages are used to control bleeding.

[0007] One of the main objectives in a medical emergency is to control or stop bleeding. Among the devices most commonly used for this purpose is the elastic bandage. Elastic bandages available on the market generally consist of a rolled bandage with hook and loop fasteners, metal clips, or tapes, applied with varying degrees of compression or support to the wound site.

[0008] The main function of bandages known in the state of the art is to cover the wound, providing a sterile barrier that keeps the area clean. However, these bandages do not have the function of controlling bleeding. For bleeding control, the use of additional materials, such as gauze, is necessary. Therefore, dressing components need to be used together with the bandage for proper treatment. However, these components are usually offered separately, which increases the time required to perform the dressing change and may increase the risk of blood loss and associated complications. The use of dressing components together with the bandage is described in some state-of-the-art documents, as described below.

[0009] US Patent 5,628,723 describes a bandage comprising: (i) a sterile dressing; (ii) an attached mesh portion extending from the sterile dressing; and (iii) a pressure-increasing member attached to an outer surface relative to the sterile dressing. The pressure-increasing member consists of a base and a wrapping element perpendicular to the base, with an opening designed to enclose the mesh portion. By wrapping the mesh portion around the wound, said mesh portion is forced through the opening, promoting a pressure increase on the dressing.

[0010] US patent 2008 / 139988 describes a bandage consisting of a strip of fabric to wrap around a part of the body with an injury. The strip of fabric also includes a dressing and a pocket over the dressing, adapted to contain a hemostatic agent for wound treatment.

[0011] US Patent 7,652,190 describes an integrated wound dressing system comprising an elongated elastic wrap; a receptacle disposed within said wrap containing a pocket; and a treatment material disposed within said receptacle, said receptacle further including an outlet to facilitate removal of said treatment material. The treatment material may include tissue, sterile gauze, blood coagulant, or medication.

[0012] Although there are several solutions in the state of the art involving bandages for use in trauma situations, such as in combat environments or medical emergencies, existing bandages do not offer the improvements in design and materials used provided by the present invention. OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The objective of the present invention is to solve problems related to safety in the application of bandages by incorporating materials arranged in a way that facilitates and speeds up application. In addition to the bandage itself, the medical emergency kit of the invention may include one or more sterile pads, sterile gauze with radiological visibility, and an occlusive sheet for pneumothorax prevention. The bandages may contain knots and / or hook-and-loop fasteners to prevent them from inadvertently unrolling during application to the wound site. The hook-and-loop fasteners are arranged in such a way that they also contribute to: (i) increasing the adhesion of the bandage material, preventing it from slipping after application and having its compression reduced; and (ii) better distributing pressure, preventing the bandage fabric from tearing. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Based on its main aspects, which have been briefly described, the present invention discloses a medical emergency kit comprising a bandage and one or more first aid devices.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bandage is a compression bandage. In one embodiment of the present invention, the bandage has a length of about 88.9 cm to about 355.6 cm (about 35 inches to about 140 inches) and a width of about 5.1 cm to about 40.6 cm (about 2 inches to about 16 inches).

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the compression bandage comprises a pressure-applying member attached to the outer surface of said bandage.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the compression bandage comprises hooks at the end of the bandage.

[0018] Based on another embodiment of the present invention, the bandage comprises a secondary dressing.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, said secondary dressing comprises a first sterile pad attached to the bandage.

[0020] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, said secondary dressing further comprises a second sterile pad, attached to the first sterile pad, and detachable from said first sterile pad.

[0021] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, said second sterile pad has a radiopaque thread.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the pads has a length of about 8.9 cm to about 61 cm (about 3.5 inches to about 24 inches) and a width of about 5.1 cm to about 40.6 cm (about 2 inches to about 16 inches).

[0023] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first sterile pad is attached to the bandage on three of its sides, with the fourth side comprising an opening forming a pocket where one or more additional first aid devices can be stored.

[0024] Based on a preferred embodiment of the present invention, one or more additional first aid devices comprise a foldable sterile gauze and / or an occlusive sheet.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present invention, the occlusive sheet has a length of about 10.1 cm to about 71.1 cm (about 4 inches to about 28 inches) and a width of about 7.6 cm to about 71.1 cm (about 3 inches to about 28 inches).

[0026] In another embodiment of the present invention, the foldable sterile gauze comprises a radiopaque thread along its entire length.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bandage comprises one or more knots and / or one or more adhesive fastener strips (e.g., Velcro®) attached to the bandage lengthwise.

[0028] In one embodiment, the medical emergency kit of the present invention is for use in the treatment or prevention of external hemorrhage and / or pneumothorax.

[0029] The present invention also relates to the use of a bandage and one or more first aid devices in the manufacture of the medical emergency kit defined herein for the treatment or prevention of external bleeding and / or pneumothorax.

[0030] The present invention further provides a method for the treatment or prevention of external bleeding and / or pneumothorax comprising the application of the medical emergency kit defined herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated as examples in the accompanying drawings and are described in sufficient detail to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the present invention without undue experimentation. The description of the present application, together with the disclosed product, its advantages and essential characteristics, will be more readily apparent when read in conjunction with the following drawings. The drawings are presented with reference numbers indicating identical or functionally similar elements.

[0032] Figure 1 illustrates a front view of the medical emergency kit.

[0033] Figure 2 illustrates a rear view of the medical emergency kit, showing the portion containing the pressure applicator attached to the outer surface of the bandage.

[0034] Figure 3 illustrates a rear view of the portion containing the pressure-applying member attached to the outer surface of the bandage.

[0035] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the pressure-applying member.

[0036] Figure 5 illustrates a side view of the initial portion of the bandage, which contains the first and second pads and the pocket where additional first aid devices, such as sterile gauze and / or an occlusive sheet, are stored.

[0037] Figure 6 illustrates a diagonal view of the initial portion of the bandage, which contains the first and second pads and the pocket where additional first aid devices, such as sterile gauze and / or an occlusive sheet, are stored.

[0038] Figure 7 illustrates a view of the portion containing the knot and the hook and loop fastener.

[0039] Figure 8 illustrates a view of the final portion of the bandage containing the hooks.

[0040] It should be understood that other embodiments of the present invention may be used and that structural changes, based on currently known structural and / or functional equivalents, may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] The detailed description that follows refers to the drawings accompanying this document, which illustrate specific configurations that can be implemented in the invention presented herein. The purpose of this description is to provide sufficient detail so that a person skilled in the art can replicate the invention based on the information provided without undue experimentation. However, it is important to understand that other configurations may be applied, and that logical, mechanical, and other modifications may be made without departing from the scope of possible implementations of the invention. Therefore, the detailed description below should not be interpreted as a limitation of the invention, but rather as an explanation to illustrate some of its possible applications.

[0042] The present invention, as illustrated in Figure 1, relates to a medical emergency kit 100 (referred to as kit 100). This kit 100 includes at least one elastic bandage 110 and one or more devices intended for first aid. Kit 100 is designed to be a complete set of essential materials that can be used in emergency situations to treat injuries effectively and quickly.

[0043] In preferred embodiments of the invention, kit 100 comprises a bandage 110 having a length of about 88.9 cm to about 355.6 cm (about 35 inches to about 140 inches) and a width of about 5.1 cm to about 40.6 cm (about 2 inches to about 16 inches). In particularly preferred embodiments, the bandage 110 has: a length of about 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of about 10.2 cm (about 4 inches); a length of about 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of about 15.2 cm (about 6 inches); a length of about 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of about 20.3 cm (about 8 inches); or a length of about 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of about 30.5 cm (about 12 inches).

[0044] Bandage 110 is preferably a compression bandage. In addition, bandage 110 includes a pressure-applying member 120, which is attached to the outer surface of bandage 110. This pressure-applying member 120 may consist of a plastic loop 125 with an opening in the center, designed to allow, after bandage 110 is wrapped around the wound, the end of the bandage to be inserted into the plastic loop 125. This process facilitates the application of additional pressure to the affected area, helping to control bleeding and aiding wound healing. The end of the bandage contains hooks 130 for attaching to the sides of the elastic bandage.

[0045] Compression bandages can be made from an elastic fabric which, in turn, can be made of different materials, depending on the application and the desired level of compression. These materials may include cotton (in combination with other materials to offer comfort and absorption), elastane, polyester, polyamide (e.g., Nylon®), viscose, among others.

[0046] In some embodiments of the invention, the bandage 110 also includes a secondary dressing, consisting of a first sterile pad 140 attached to the bandage and, additionally, a second sterile pad 145. The second sterile pad 145 is attached to the first pad 140; the second sterile pad 145 is detachable for use on another wound if necessary, or the second sterile pad 145 can be used together with the first pad for wounds with significant bleeding. The second sterile pad 145 may contain a radiopaque thread, which allows the second sterile pad 145 to be identified on radiographs. This is essential to prevent the dressing material from being accidentally left inside deep wounds.

[0047] The first and second cushions (140, 145) each have a length of about 8.9 cm to about 61 cm (about 3.5 inches to about 24 inches) and a width of about 5.1 cm to about 40.6 cm (about 2 inches to about 16 inches). Each cushion preferably has: a length of about 20 cm (about 7.9 inches) and a width of about 10 cm (about 3.9 inches); a length of about 20 cm (about 7.9 inches) and a width of about 14 cm (about 5.5 inches); a length of about 30 cm (about 11.8 inches) and a width of about 20 cm (about 7.9 inches); a length of about 50 cm (about 19.7 inches) and a width of about 50 cm (about 19.7 inches).

[0048] In general, the kits according to the invention have a first and a second pad (140, 145). In a particular embodiment, the kit according to the invention contains a large-sized bandage, with a length of about 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of about 30.5 cm (about 12 inches), and only one pad, with a length of about 50 cm (about 19.7 inches) and a width of about 50 cm (about 19.7 inches).

[0049] The pads are made of a non-stick material, which reduces the likelihood of the pad sticking to the wound, preventing trauma when removed. The material of said first and second pads (140, 145) comprises cotton.

[0050] As described, three sides of the first sterile pad 140 are attached to the bandage 110, while the fourth side has an opening, forming a pocket 150. This pocket serves to store additional first aid devices, which are protected and ready for use when needed. The design of the pocket 150, formed by the first pad 140 and the bandage 110, allows dressing materials to be stored safely and conveniently, as well as facilitating quick access to them during application.

[0051] In some embodiments, additional first aid devices may include a foldable sterile gauze and / or an occlusive sheet. The sterile gauze has a radiopaque thread running its entire length. The gauze may be a hydrophilic gauze. The types of gauze materials may include cotton, viscose, polyester, or a combination of cotton and synthetic fibers (such as polypropylene or polyester). Preferably, the gauze material is nonwoven fabric. The gauze may have a length of approximately 370 cm (approximately 145.7 inches) and a width of approximately 7.5 cm (approximately 3 inches).

[0052] An occlusive dressing is used to minimize or prevent air from entering the wound, helping to prevent pneumothorax (accumulation of air in the chest cavity). The occlusive dressing has a length of approximately 10.1 cm to approximately 71.1 cm (approximately 4 inches to approximately 28 inches) and a width of approximately 7.6 cm to approximately 71.1 cm (approximately 3 inches to approximately 28 inches). In specific embodiments, the occlusive dressing has: a length of approximately 30 cm (approximately 11.8 inches) and a width of approximately 22 cm (approximately 8.7 inches); or a length of approximately 50 cm (approximately 19.7 inches) and a width of approximately 50 cm (approximately 19.7 inches).

[0053] The occlusive sheet can be made of a transparent and flexible plastic film, similar to the materials used in chest seals, and is waterproof. The types of materials used in the occlusive sheet can include polyvinyl chloride, silicone, polyethylene, polyurethane, adhesive tapes, and non-woven fabric.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bandage 110 may also contain knots 160 and / or hook-and-loop fastener strips 165 (e.g., Velcro®) attached to the bandage lengthwise, both having the function of preventing the bandage 110 from unrolling inadvertently during application to the wound. The hook-and-loop fastener also contributes to the adhesion of the bandage material, preventing the bandage from slipping after application and having its compression reduced, as well as better distributing pressure, preventing the bandage fabric from tearing.

[0055] Bandage 110 may contain from 1 to 40 knots and from 1 to 12 hook-and-loop fastener strips, preferably 3 hook-and-loop fastener strips, ensuring that bandage 110 fits firmly and securely to the wound site. These elements help keep the bandage in place, preventing displacement or misalignment that could compromise the effectiveness of the treatment. Each hook-and-loop fastener strip is approximately 5 cm (about 2 inches) long and approximately 1 cm (about 0.4 inches) wide. Preferably, the hook-and-loop fastener strips are positioned approximately 37 cm (about 14.6 inches) apart.

[0056] Preferably, the medical emergency kit of the invention is sterile. Optionally, the medical emergency kit of the invention is vacuum-packed.

[0057] The medical emergency kit of the invention is suitable for the treatment or prevention of external bleeding and / or pneumothorax. The invention further provides for the use of a bandage and one or more first aid devices in the manufacture of the medical emergency kit defined herein for the treatment or prevention of external bleeding and / or pneumothorax. The invention additionally provides a method for the treatment or prevention of external bleeding and / or pneumothorax comprising the application of the medical emergency kit defined herein. External bleeding and / or pneumothorax can be caused by injuries such as a cut wound, a puncture wound, a laceration, or a traumatic amputation.

[0058] It is important to emphasize that the invention should not be limited to the specific examples presented herein. Modifications, substitutions, or adaptations may be made within the scope of the appended claims, provided they do not alter the core of the invention. Although specific terms have been used in this document to describe the invention, they are generic and descriptive in nature and should not be seen as limiting the possibilities for implementing the invention. Technological alternatives and variations that may arise during the practical application of the concept should be considered an integral part of the invention. EXAMPLE

[0059] The following is a non-limiting example of the use of the medical emergency kit according to the present invention in the treatment of an injury.

[0060] The first step involves carefully unrolling the initial part of the elastic bandage, which includes the pads and the pocket containing the gauze and occlusive sheet, and removing the gauze and occlusive sheet from the pocket. These items are essential for covering and protecting the wound area before applying the elastic bandage.

[0061] The second step involves applying the gauze and occlusive dressing to the wound. First, apply the gauze directly to the wound area, and then place the occlusive dressing over the gauze. The gauze will be positioned directly over the wound, while the occlusive dressing will help maintain a sterile environment and protect against external contamination. This step creates a protective layer against dirt, bacteria, and other external agents, minimizing the risk of infection.

[0062] In the third step, the pad should be positioned over the wound area. If there is another wound, the second pad can be removed to cover it. If there is no other wound, the pad can be left in place as additional protection for the wound.

[0063] After applying the gauze and occlusive dressing, and positioning the pad on the wound area, the fourth step begins, which consists of carefully unrolling the elastic bandage and applying it around the wound area. During this process, it is important to detach the knots and hook-and-loop fasteners on the bandage as you unroll it. The knots and hook-and-loop fasteners help to secure the bandage firmly and safely, preventing it from unrolling inadvertently during application. The hook-and-loop fasteners will reattach the bandage after application, preventing it from slipping and having its compression reduced, as well as better distributing pressure and preventing the bandage fabric from tearing.

[0064] In the fifth step, the elastic bandage should be inserted into the pressure-applying limb: once the bandage has been wrapped around the wound, pass the end of the bandage through the pressure-applying limb. The pressure-applying limb is a structure designed to ensure that compression is applied evenly over the wound area without causing excessive discomfort. The pressure-applying limb helps distribute pressure over the wound in a controlled manner.

[0065] The sixth step involves tightening the elastic bandage as much as possible, ensuring that the bandage is firmly fitted around the wound area. This tightening is necessary to provide adequate pressure, which will help stop the bleeding, reduce swelling, and promote wound healing.

[0066] In the sixth step, finish wrapping the elastic bandage firmly and securely over the pressure-applying limb, ensuring that all edges of the pad are completely covered. This step is crucial to maintain constant pressure and prevent the bandage from coming undone or shifting during use.

[0067] The eighth and final step involves attaching the hooks to the sides of the elastic bandage. After wrapping the bandage, finish the process by attaching the hooks located on the sides of the elastic bandage. These hooks are designed to securely fasten the ends of the bandage, preventing it from coming loose or unraveling. This ensures that compression on the wound is maintained constantly and effectively until the appropriate time for removal.

[0068] This procedure offers a systematic and effective way to apply elastic bandages, ensuring that the wound receives proper treatment with controlled compression, protection, and firmness during the healing process.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Emergency medical kit characterized by comprising a bandage and one or more first aid devices.

2. Emergency medical kit, according to claim 1, characterized in that the bandage is a compression bandage, wherein the bandage has a length of about 88.9 cm to about 355.6 cm (about 35 inches to about 140 inches) and a width of about 5.1 cm to about 40.6 cm (about 2 inches to about 16 inches).

3. Emergency medical kit, according to claim 2, characterized by the bandage having: - a length of approximately 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of approximately 10.2 cm (about 4 inches); - a length of approximately 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of approximately 15.2 cm (about 6 inches); - a length of about 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of about 20.3 cm (about 8 inches); or - a length of approximately 205 cm (about 80.7 inches) and a width of approximately 30.5 cm (about 12 inches).

4. Emergency medical kit, according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the compression bandage comprises a pressure-applying member fixed to the outer surface of said bandage.

5. Emergency medical kit, according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the compression bandage comprises hooks at the end of said bandage.

6. Emergency medical kit, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the bandage comprises a secondary dressing, wherein the secondary dressing comprises a first sterile pad attached to the bandage.

7. Emergency medical kit, according to claim 6, characterized in that said secondary dressing further comprises a second sterile pad, attached to the first sterile pad, and detachable from said first sterile pad for optional use on another wound.

8. Emergency medical kit, according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the first sterile pad is attached to the bandage on three of its sides, the fourth side comprising an opening forming a pocket where one or more additional first aid device(s) can be stored.

9. Medical emergency kit, according to claim 8, characterized in that one or more additional first aid device(s) comprise a foldable sterile gauze and / or an occlusive sheet.

10. Medical emergency kit, according to claim 9, characterized by the foldable sterile gauze comprising a radiopaque thread along its entire length.

11. Emergency medical kit, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the bandage comprises one or more knots and / or one or more hook-and-loop fastener strips attached to the bandage lengthwise.

12. Emergency medical kit, according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by being for use in the treatment or prevention of external hemorrhage and / or pneumothorax.

13. Use of a bandage and one or more first aid devices, characterized by being in the manufacture of a medical emergency kit, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, for the treatment or prevention of external bleeding and / or pneumothorax.

14. Method for the treatment or prevention of external hemorrhage and / or pneumothorax, characterized by comprising the application of a medical emergency kit, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11.

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