Reddit mentions: The best wound care & dressings

Aww I am so sorry that thing is still giving you trouble! I just wanted to offer a bit of unsolicited advice for the scarring:

I have had a few surgeries now including having multiple moles removed from my face and body, both by GP's and plastic surgeons. One of the things I learned from the plastic surgeon who did the first one was to use moist healing whenever possible.

I know how hard it is to get a damn bandage to stick to your face anyway, so here's what I do.

Supplies:

• 2nd skin moist burn pads - these are pricey but form a clear less noticeable barrier that stays moist. I changed bandages daily so buying a box for $35 was cheaper in the long run by far compared to buying 3 single pads for $7 - these are also available in small packs from walgreens.
  
  
• Tegraderm clear adhesive dressing - This stuff is the holy grail of bandages, it sticks without irritating already irritated skin, it is flexible, invisible, and matte so you can put makeup over it. It does not leave a film or residue of any kind. It also comes in a long roll that you can cut to fit, which is what I did as it's cheaper.
  
  
• Skin prep - This stuff makes bandages STICK. I use it on my little girl before putting a bandaid on because she will peel the damn thing off two seconds later. This stuff is amazing! You swab it on before applying a bandage and presto! No peeling, even in water. It also protects the skin from damage and cleans wounds gently.
  
  
• Small sterile scissors (wipe down with rubbing alcohol)
  
  
• sterile tweezers
  
  
• a clean paper towel to lay everything on
  
  The procedure: After cleansing with a gentle cleanser, but BEFORE moisturizing, wash your hands. Cut a small square to fit your wound site from the 2nd skin. This only needs to cover the actual broken skin, but will really help the crusty build up if you decide to cover the whole thing.
  
  Cut a square slightly larger of the tegraderm and round the corners to prevent peeling. You want 1/4-1/2 inch overhang for the tegraderm to adhere properly. Get a skin prep wipe out and tear open package. Don't get any on your fingers, this stuff is sticky.
  
  Peel the blue plastic layer of the 2nd skin and place it on your wound, then using tweezers and your fingers gently peel the clear plastic film from the top. You should be left with a really soothing nice little clear patch of gel - don't worry if you mess this up, the smaller the wound the more fiddly it is at first.
  
  Next, using your tweezers, remove the prep site pad from its foil and swab gently all around the edges of the 2nd skin, covering the whole area that the tegraderm will be covering. Set that aside.
  
  Next, grab your tegraderm. Like the skin prep, this stuff has two layers, there will be a paper liner on one side, the clear film itself in between, and a paper "ring" around the outside to help you with application. Peel the paper liner from that side, exposing the adhesive, and place over your wound, completely covering the 2nd skin. Do not stretch it as you apply, and press gently all around the edges to ensure a good seal. Gently peel the leftover paper ring from the outer edge, and you are done.
  
  You can safely leave this bandage on for a week or more, but you'll probably find if you're wearing makeup that it will start to peel by the end of the day. You can gently apply lotion to your face, and then concealer and makeup over the whole bandage.
  
  Sorry this got long, before I shut up and return to my hole: Some pictures/anecdotal evidence. I had two similarly sized moles removed by a GP, not a plastic surgeon. I used the above method on the one cut out of my face, from the moment I got home with the stitches still in, and left the other mole to heal on its own following the GP's directions of keep dry and covered til stitches removed. (Bandage changes this complicated would have been impossible by myself as that mole was on my shoulder blade.) As you can see the one on my face is nearly invisible, while the one on my shoulder blade puffed up nicely and remains discolored.
  
  I hope this helps!

Yes clean around wound. The flap has to go. It’s going to bleed when it’s clipped but that’s good cause you’re getting healthy tissue with blood vessels. Self-Adhesive Cohesive Wrap Bandage Tape by LotFancy, Elastic Non-Woven, FDA Approved, 10 Rolls, Assorted Colors (2Inches x 5Yards) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6C91ZS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qNCLBbBSFG2VC
Remedy and Recovery Professional Groomer's Styptic Powder for Pets, 1.5-Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004PJ55KC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xOCLBbAKS8A0G
Stash Tea Original Honey Sticks 20-3 oz Sticks Individually Sealed Portable Honey Tubes 100% Pure Clover Honey Kosher Certified Individually Wrapped Sticks of Pure Clover Honey, Sweeten Tea or Coffee https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000I4PY1S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gPCLBb9TNCZHV
Dealmed Gauze Pads, Non-Sterile, Non Woven, 2" x 2", 4 Ply, 200/Bx https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M63XDS7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kQCLBbVN65JRZ
Manna Pro Theracyn Poultry Wound and Skin Care Spray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I5XHK88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IXCLBb28EDCFH
Silver Nitrate Solution, 0.1M, 100mL - The Curated Chemical Collection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0787GCSKG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_E0CLBb42XWGRC
SE CS100-6 100 Count 6" Cotton Swabs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002V0ZY2Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_G1CLBbQDJ3WQT
10 - Black Twist Open/Close 2oz Refillable Artist's Bullet Bottles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N59CU9J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.2CLBb6123ZF2
Swan Isopropyl Alcohol, 99 percent, Pint, 16 OZ (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZCCYTWG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_G4CLBb3V54WRP
Dynarex D1415 Povidone Iodine Prep Solution USP, 16 Fluid Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005R8580M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_G5CLBbMTA0YK8
Squip Nasaline Salt-box Of 50 Pre-measured Packets, 400 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009EXQLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_y7CLBbW76XN59
Teenitor 3ml Pipette, Top Quality Disposable Pipettes Transfer Pipettes 3ml Eye Dropper for Essential Oil Pipette Makeup Tool 110pcs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JXVGNK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Y8CLBbG25KBC5
Save A Caf Sav A Chick Electrolyte Vitamin Supplement 3 PACK/.25OUNCE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004UQOZC4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_19CLBb3BFM046
Gorilla 7500101 Super Glue Brush & Nozzle, 10 g, Clear https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7AVQKA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_SgDLBbTME6VWX
MedPride Nitrile Exam Gloves, Powder-Free, Small, Box/100 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GS8W2HC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fiDLBb1X2K42G
Panasonic ES246AC Bikini Shaper & Trimmer for Women with Compact, Portable Design and Adjustable Trim Settings, Battery Operated https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005JS5C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_sjDLBbY10CSTW

Think that covers basics. Alcohol, self adhesive wrap, salt for saline, styptic powder, gauze, theracyn (antibiotic for superficial injuries), silver nitrate (only use with wooden applicators- strong cauterizing agent), pipette, electrolyte ( 1/16 tsp to 8 oz water. If chick is ill add honey for quick energy then mix solution with food to make mash), bottles, betadine ( I cut to 50% strength with saline), and gorilla glue with brush and dispenser. Oh and gloves and shaver:)

Sometimes I've had sensors only last me 12-14 days, and when I keep getting the dreaded "???" then I have no choice but to change it. I usually do get about 3 weeks out of them though. I use alcohol swabs to clean the area first, which also helps the adhesive to stick. Then I use Opsite Flexifix over the sensor's adhesive (cutting a hole in the middle for the transmitter or using a tag punch like /u/monorail_pilot mentioned). This helps to give it a better seal and keep water out so that the sensor lasts longer. After a few days, the edges of the Flexifix do tend to get linty from my clothes, so I just trim off the linty edges and add a new layer of Flexifix on top. It's very thin so even with 2-3 layers, I hardly feel it. You can get a giant roll on Amazon for about $20 (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001SIQCRI/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_gCXrxb0RK49N0). I've had my roll for about 7 months and I think I'm barely halfway through it. And it peels off pretty easily with only an alcohol swab or two. Here's a tutorial on how to make a template: https://youtu.be/o4dUgRZB4h0

You may want to try something basic like the Flexifix first before using stronger stuff that may be harder to get off later. Depending on your activity level, whether you sweat a lot, etc, you may need something stronger though. Good luck! :)

I would disagree with other users here, building your own kit will save a decent amount of money

What are you looking to put into these IFAKs? Here are some links that a 'basic' would have

4 pack of chest seals $29.19 (one in each kit)

20 count 5x9 combine pads $7.99 (two or so in each kit)

Isreali Bandage (non-amazon link as there have been many issues with amazon selling Isreali bandages and people getting knock-offs, youll want the 4in 'new manufacture' which come in a grey outer pouch, open the outer pouch and put them in the IFAK like that (they are double sealed/this will leave them sealed in a see through rip away plastic which can be used as an occlusive dressing) one in each kit.


2 Hemostatic Gauze $19.97 (open outer pack, put one 'inner' pack in each kit)

12 pack of 2in roller gauze $4.80 (one, maybe two in each kit, can be replaced with a triangular bandage instead)

12 Triangular Bandages (Cravats) $6.80 - these are multi-use, bleeding control, securing a dressing, TQ use etc. most opt not to have them but theyre a great 'multi-use' item I carry in every IFAK (one in each kit)

2 pack trauma shears $9.99 (one in each kit)

2 pack CAT tourniquets $53.98, one reason to go with amazon is the easy returns, which is a double edged sword, a lot of people will buy fake CATs for cheap, purchase real ones for $$ then 'return' the real ones with the cheap fake ones, look up lot codes when you get them if it doesnt look the part return it. Stay away from the thin elastic "pocket tourniquets" (one in each kit)

Rip away IFAK MOLLE pouch $14.99 each, depending on color. I prefer these over just a MOLLE pouch, unbuckle and use or throw to someone else without having to lug w.e. equipment the pouch is attached to - or leave off the MOLLE backing and put inside a pack loose


Personally I dont put airway in my IFAKs but do in a larger kit thats nearby - if you want links to NPAs a pretty good general size to go with would be a 26, dont forget lube or really you can just spit on them. Same with a decompression needle, not going to be in my IFAK.

More importantly than any of this stuff is training, you can do a lot more with training than you can with a 'be all end all kit'. Dont be afraid to adapt a kit to your environment, for example if you're going far away from civilization consider you might do wound packing and need more hemostatic gauze, but if you're right down the street from a hospital you probably wont want to pack a wound with a homeostatic agent but that will depend on the situation.

The purpose of an IFAK is to get you to a larger first aid kit/medical help.

(I purchase medical supplies for the EMS company I work for, Amazon prices are generally cheaper than buying from a distributor unless you're looking to build dozens of these kits and even then certain items will still be cheaper especially factoring in shipping) Any questions feel free to ask

It's supposed to look like a snake skin.
https://www.therpf.com/forums/attachments/img_1403-jpg.1025037/
I figured out a fairly inexpensive and reasonably close build using wound dressing:
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00XNDAVUU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_C7LiDb86BBEG1
Any gray dye can be used to darken it. Once it's dry again, stretch it a little with your fingers and then flip it inside out. Looks just like snake skin.
Pretty close metal tassels can be found on Amazon, too. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B06XQHLMZM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_r-LiDbE5W1050
I've seen people buying snake skin scarves and others just using a wide shoe lace. A little work can get nearly screen accurate though.
Good luck!

I use a lot of IV3000 things with cut outs around the sensor itself and that usually lasts longer than the sensor itself does (probably because I've been using expired ones), at least 14 days though. That's really only because I have a bunch of those laying around because I get them with my pump supplies for some reason. S&N also sells the stuff as tape, Opsite Flexifix, but I had better success with the IV3000 things.

When I do it, I use 3 IV3000s and cut 1 in half vertically, 1 in half horizontally, and just cut a hole in the third. You can use an old sensor as a guide or just get better at it over time. I made this really poor diagram to show. While I use an alcohol swab to clean my skin before I insert the sensor, I use an IV Prep wipe to kind of soak the sensor's adhesive after it's on, then let that dry and then stick on the cut pieces.

I know a lot of people also use kinesio tape or derivatives thereof, or even buy precut patches for that purpose, Simpatch is one 'brand' of patch, and a lot of other ones you can find on Amazon.

Overall, I've noticed that it's most important to get the edges to stay down, if you've got that, the sensor will usually keep working even if it's been jostled a little bit. YDMV.

>This isn't something you'd want some amateur attempting as it is definitely something that needs professional guidance to do well and most importantly CLEANLY AND SAFELY.

​

​

MILLIONS of people stick needles in their arms EVERY SINGLE DAY.. whether it be for insulin or heroin.

nobody receives special training to use an epipen. stick in leg it about all there is to it.

you could probably learn from a hospital because they need to teach caregivers so nurses don't have to come over every day to inject meds.

​

it doesn't sound like they're really concerned about getting it wrong.. take some notes.. maybe.. if you forget.

​

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000660.htm

>Giving an insulin injection
>
>To give an insulin injection, you need to fill the right syringe with the right amount of medicine, decide where to give the injection, and know how to give the injection.
>
>Your health care provider or a certified diabetes educator (CDE) will teach you all of these steps, watch you practice, and answer your questions. You may take notes to remember the details. Use the information below as a reminder.

​

there are plenty if DIY recipes for drip hydration.

https://driphydration.com/blog/how-to-make-a-diy-hangover-prevention-kit/

​

and you get IV bags on amazon a hundred at a time.

https://smile.amazon.com/Medline-DYND74261-Start-Kits-Chloraprep/dp/B004GC2LTQ/

needles are separate

https://smile.amazon.com/Piercing-Needles-Tattoo-Gauge-Catheter/dp/B01H3PKH34

​

Drip bar: Should you get an IV on demand?

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/drip-bar-should-you-get-an-iv-on-demand-2018092814899

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NFL guys just drink pedialyte.

​

Abbott Taps Odell Beckham Jr. To Promote Pedialyte For Adults

https://www.forbes.com/sites/kurtbadenhausen/2019/09/06/abbott-labs-signs-odell-beckham-jr-to-promote-pedialyte-for-adults/#2f040f0a7845

Some people swear by the skin prep stuff, others seem to have a reaction to it like I did. It's one of those things that's worth trying definitely, but if you have skin issues, it's a likely source of the problem.

I use the Opsite Flexifix around the edges of my sensor (so the white part of the sensor) to secure it. It will start to peel after a few days, especially if your sensor is in a location where it rubs. I just trim the peeling parts and put new Opsite around the edges.

For covering the sensor when I want it more waterproof, I use a large Tegaderm patch, which is a bit more substantial than Opsite.

Opsite is the best stuff. It's very light and breathable, so should not cause irritation.

You can actually get wound dressings and gel with honey in them in the States. A certified wound care nurse I have worked with has said they've had great success with them.

Butrans is pretty amazing. Though if you go with ANY of the patches listed here, be sure to get a clear waterproof bandage to make sure it stays on all week

Here’s a silver wound gel by curad. My cousin uses this one.

https://www.amazon.ca/GermShield-Antimicrobial-Topical-Diabetic-Bacteria/dp/B075GL1TCC


Here’s a cerave hydrocortisone lotion if you feel more comfortable using a product designed for skin/face.
https://www.amazon.ca/CeraVe-Hydrocortisone-Anti-Itch-Ceramides-Relieving/dp/B00Y7QTD8I

I honestly get these from my hospital pharmacy. No need to overpay for marketing and glitter, ya knaw.

I’ve also included an article from Costco’s magazine. Yeah , I know it’s a weird place to learn about acne but they have articles about every aspect of daily living. It helps Ed my so maybe I can help you too. :D
https://i.imgur.com/yTIuy4o.jpg

Hey guys this is the one I use it has no adhesive but an absorbent patch in the middle and I tie the gauze around the abscess. It’s super great and doesn’t bother the area. No tape is needed which is good since the glue from the tape can cause rashes and irritation. Hope this helps !

link

> nurses don't earn all that well anyway

I'm not sure I agree with that. My wife is an RN with 3 years experience and makes close to $90k with no overtime


>That $50 splint costs $0.50 to make

I find it very hard that this which is self hardening fiberglass costs $0.50 to make. And I generally use 2-4 of them (depending if the doc wants a sugar tong) on a simple wrist or arm break.

> I've been in independent docotor's offices that had their own x-ray machines, so they can't be all that expensive, and modern digital ones have essentially zero marginal cost to operate since there's no film any longer.

True they don't have film but the sensor you put behind the person costs $30k and is SUPER easy to damage The reason a lot of clinics have xrays is that they are buying old less advanced ones. For example the difference between a 64 slice CAT and a 320 slice CAT is about $3million. A clinic can get away with a simple unit because they are just trying to diagnose enough to send them to the hospital. (Just using CAT's because I know them better than xrays)

>.and a bill from the hospital for $2,000.

This one is hard to know without seeing exactly what was done, but keep in mind that an ER costs a huge amount to keep staffed because you're paying thousands of dollars an hour in labor and letting millions of dollars of equipment sit there even if there are no patients.

>And part of it is that no point, did someone say, we can give you a shot for $300, or I can write you a script and you can go fill it for $10

I'm sure they did write them a script as well, $300 for a shot of toridol is not unreasonable. The nurse needs to put an IV in and do a full assessment. There is probably $125 in labor alone between the order, the charting, and the actual doing of it. Plus another $20-30 in materials. This doesn't even touch the equipment that he was "taking up" by occupying that room.

>Also, we charge $80 for this sling, but you can buy one at Walgreens for $5. And while we're on the subject, I've negotiated with every insurance company $80 for my services,

I've never actually been in a hospital that charges for slings. Generally we have the tech put them on and they are not billed.

>My wife is convinced it mostly comes from uninsured people not paying their bills and it getting passed onto others, that's obviously part of it, but no way is it that high.

This is actually VERY true, an ER is not allowed to refuse services to anyone without at least assessing them. The minimum cost for an RN and MD assessment is probably $150 in labor alone (plus the cost of the equipment that sits in the room unused ) I'd wager 70% of the people who come into our ER are uninsured/on medicaid. It's worse in the metro areas.


I do know numbers from when I worked on a rig and I can tell you that the only thing most ambulance services make money on is transfers. They do the 911 calls because they are obligated to in order to get guaranteed service areas. In my state they get a designated area that is their territory and they get first crack at all the transfers but in exchange they have to agree to handle all 911 calls. Overall we loose money running 911 calls because we end up eating it for most of them.

> 50' roll of Tegaderm (2" wide)

Is this the one? I'd love more input on where and what to buy exactly. All I have is SkinTac, which is great for the smaller infusion sets from Medtronic (Mio).

I'd recommend using some tegaderm for that. Good luck with the healing.

http://www.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Dressing-Non-Adherent-Pieces/dp/B005USZRNM?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00

I like these. They have a non adhesive little pad in the middle that fits perfectly over the transmitter.

Tegaderm, and yes, this is the bomb.

http://www.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Transparent-Film-Dressing/dp/B000PYP5R4/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1342125358&sr=8-4&keywords=tegaderm

Those are a great start! A recommendation I can't make enough is: Silver Solution antimicrobial gel. Similar to Neosporin. It's very very close to the ointment called "Silvadene" (silver sulfadiazine) used to prevent infection following severe burns/injuries. Silvadene is listed in the WHO's Model List of Essential Medicines.

THIS IS NOT COLLOIDAL SILVER

Colloidal silver is a suspension of silver particles in fluid and has potentially deadly interactions with tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics as well as thyroid medications.

Any links for it?

All I can find is Dental Cotton rolls, that look like well...tampons (Here and Here)and not like the sheets you get with Cotton Bacon. I've heard before that Cotton Bacon is supposedly Dental Cotton but I've never been able to find anything that looks like it.

Okay, now I'm a little confused. Are you talking about the small cotton cylinders like these, or a big roll like PM_ME_TITS_N_420 was talking about?

if the scar is not in a very mobile area, such as a joint, you can look into something called Tegaderm: https://www.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Transparent-Film-Dressing/dp/B000PYP5R4

THis is like a medical adhesive saran wrap. When it's put on properly it is water tight. Might help you get back in the pool sooner.

No need to wash it with hydrogen peroxide twice a day. If you really feel the need to clean it all that often you can use sterile saline or just soap and water honestly. The antibacterial ointment is okay.

If it isn't open or draining any fluid you don't really have to put a bandage on it, unless the rubbing of your pants opens it up, or it is painful without a dressing.

If you still feel the need to keep it bandaged, I suggest a 4x4 gauze (or two depending on the size) wrapped with something like kerlix around your thigh to keep it in place. Don't use an ace bandage or those stretchy wrap bandages because they will tighten throughout the day and can cut off circulation.

you could also keep the gauze in place with a piece of stockingette. Just cut some and it is like a little sleeve you can slip around your thigh over the gauze pads.

So many options! You should be able to pick this stuff up at any pharmacy, walmart, etc.

Generally blisters form when there is too much friction. The presence of water, be it sweat or rainwater, can exacerbate this. Typically the cause is an ill-fitting shoe. In your case, it may well be the socks. So obviously don't use those socks again. But the sock might not be the whole cause. Perhaps there is something about your shoe that your fluffier socks are protecting you from?

Where on your foot is the blister?

Anyway, now that you have the blister, you can deal with it in a couple ways. Generally speaking, you should not drain the blister unless it's already been ruptured naturally. The fluid inside will act as a cushion. And if it does rupture, do not peel away the outside skin. That's going to make it more painful and more susceptible to infection. I recommend some blister bandages. You should be able to find them in a good drug store or supermarket. The brand isn't important. Or look for some tegaderm film, though that might be less likely than the blister bandages.

In the future, remember that prevention is key. Listen to your feet. If you feel a "hot spot" forming somewhere, don't ignore it. Figure out the cause and make necessary changes.

I've used Opsite Flexifix (https://www.amazon.com/Smith-Nephew-5466000041-Flexifix-Transparent/dp/B001SIQCRI/) with excellent results - seems to be cheaper too.

**2 mini ice packs inside tubular stockinettes (I forgot the name yesterday but they weren’t ordinary stockings) Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Medline-MSC9506YDH-Medigrip-Tubular-Bandages/dp/B009I383TK/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?keywords=tubular+stockinettes&qid=1569889682&s=gateway&sr=8-11

Put ice inside and tie it around your head

One thing the doctors never told me about after seeing them a few times after wrecks is Tegaderm. It's amazing for roadrash, actually have some on right now :-\ arrrrgh crashing!
http://www.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Transparent-Film-Dressing/dp/B001CYEWKC

you can opsite as a 4"x3' roll: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001SIQCRI, which is what i do and just cut out the center with this stamp: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017JIPZZU (fits perfectly for the g5)

I bought my last roll in mid 2015 and im only about a quarter way done.

Have you tried tegaderm patches? They work well for me when playing soccer. they can be bought off amazon:https://www.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Dressing-Non-Adherent-Pieces/dp/B005USZRNM/

These Tegraderm products were my go-to solution back when I was using patches. They come in different sizes, use the size that matches your patches.

McKesson - Hydrogen Peroxide - 1 gal. Solution - Bottle - McK https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076CRRC68/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.tAKBbBYPVQHP

Hey, sorry, I forgot and my home internet situation is... challenging.
Tourniquet
Isreali bandage
Shears Nasopharyngeal Airway
Quikclot bandages
Eye Shields
Emergency blankets
Halo chest seals

Tegaderm is seriously excellent stuff. You cover the blisters in soft 4x4 bandages, and then put the tegaderm over it. It acts like a giant bandaid, and will reduce the pain. It also eliminates friction, which can make blisters larger and more numerous.

Smith & Nephew OpSite FlexiFit.

The proper tape is critical and this stuff is amazing. It's thin, flexible, transparent and holds incredibly well. It's flexible enough to slip a device under the tape which also adds to the device's gripping power.

Get the 4" wide roll and cut off a 1/2" strip. Wrap smoothly and snugly either on or slightly behind the scar line then pull forward.

It makes your dick look really stubby, but I find it the most convenient retention method since I can leave it on and still do everything I want or need to do.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001SIQCRI/ref=sxts1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1485783055&sr=1

Dental cotton off amazon works wonders. That's what cotton bacon is.

Cotton Rolls #2 Medium 1.5" Non-Sterile 100% High Absorbent Cotton Pack of 50 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017QSM8DA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_TFrIxb3MP84YT

I have an issue with constantly wanting to pick at mine and just the affected area getting irritated and uncomfortable due to movement and clothes. I find that this (here's the [smaller version] (http://smile.amazon.com/Nexcare-Tegaderm-Waterproof-Transparent-Dressing/dp/B000GG7UEW/ref=sr_1_6?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1452501499&sr=1-6&keywords=tegaderm) - disclaimer: I've never used this one before) helps a lot. Once you put it on, it's like second skin and you don't feel it. It really helps me not pick at it because I forget that area was affected in the first place. That area won't get irritated due to friction either. It also stays all day (I forget it's there), even in like the awkward creases of butt/groin area - I've even used a combination of neosporin and acne cream under it (no gauze, just straight on skin), didn't apply it perfectly and not only did it stay >24 hrs, it stayed through multiple sessions of rough sex and showers. It was an especially rough breakout and since the entire area was kept clean by that film and I didn't mess with it, it was basically entirely healed when I took it off, with minimal to no scarring that I can notice too, compared the countless other breakouts.

Hope this helps, I'm still struggling to manage mine and it makes me so self conscious since my boyfriend is a butt dude, even though he doesn't care.

If I'm not mistaken Dexcom doesn't say it's water proof. I use these for my son 3M Tegaderm Transparent Film Dressing... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PYP5R4?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000PYP5R4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1496427478&sr=8-3&keywords=tegaderm

https://smile.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Transparent-Film-Dressing/dp/B000PYP5R4

You can cover it with a transparent film dressing like this. You can get it at a drug store (or amazon) and you only really need it until the area is done shedding.

Also, use sunscreen on that for the rest of your life - really makes a difference.

https://www.amazon.com/Safetec-Relief-Insect-Antiseptic-Reliever/dp/B07J4RPYQ2

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003DPVERM/?coliid=I32ON7D5OOSXF

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KQS2NGK/?coliid=I789G1C4REKK

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ITAKG6A/?coliid=I1J8A8RGQ9QU9W

https://www.amazon.com/Hibiclens-Antiseptic-Antimicrobial-bottle-Each/dp/B014I0KA34

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJTH5L2

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001J5H92C

https://www.amazon.com/Briggs-Precision-Forceps-Locking-Tweezers/dp/B00GGAAPD0

https://www.amazon.com/Tick-Twister-Remover-Small-Large/dp/B01BECRHEO

https://www.amazon.com/Triple-Antibiotic-Ointment-5gr-Packets/dp/B00H2T9K3K

https://www.amazon.com/Safetec-Burn-Gel-gram-count/dp/B00D7C46KI

https://www.amazon.com/HUMCO-232598001

https://www.amazon.com/Dynarex-Triangular-Bandage-40x40x56-Count/dp/B000TVQHO8

https://www.amazon.com/3M-Tegaderm-Transparent-Film-Dressing/dp/B000PYP5R4

https://www.amazon.com/Medipore-Soft-Cloth-Tape-10yd/dp/B019Y81FMU

https://www.amazon.com/3M-Micropore-Paper-Tape-White/dp/B003TXPZ64

https://www.amazon.com/BIC-Round-Ballpoint-Medium-144-Count/dp/B06WGMTMVM (not whole box)

https://www.amazon.com/Kimberly-Clark-Safety-55093-Nitrile/dp/B00U8TUXIM

...Or you could get a roll of OpSite that'll give you ~130 patches at around 18 cents each.

Just out of curiosity, what kind of dental cotton do you use? I ordered some from 1.5" cotton rolls from Elite Dental on Amazon ([link](Cotton Rolls #2 Medium 1.5" Non-Sterile 100% High Absorbent Cotton Pack of 50 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017QSM8DA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_VSaMxb5BJBFW5) ) but I'm not sure if I got the right stuff. Can't seem to find the grain. It kind of goes every which way.

I use this. You need to cut a hole out of the middle to go over the transmitter.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001SIQCRI/ref=sr_ph_1_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1486445392&sr=sr-1&keywords=opsite

I got them from here then put fake blood on them. They are just real gauze bandages

I use this skin-tac, and these for even more holding power. You may want to get the skin-tac wipes though, I think they'd work better depending on your situation.

1. With the t-slim you can skip filling the cannula right after you fill the tubing, just hit done instead of fill cannula. Then you've changed the cartridge, but not the site. This won't affect the site change reminder if you have that set.
   
   
   
2. As for reusing cartridges, I do occasionally, usually when I need to refill but don't have another cartridge with me. I go for the normal process of changing the cartridge, but when it says to remove the used cartridge I pull the excess insulin out of the cartridge instead of inserting a new one, and then continue as normal. More than likely not recommended, but can be done in a pinch.
   
   I've seen others say you can just add insulin to the cartridge, and the tslim will just stay at whatever level it was until you drop back down to that level again. ex. you're at 50u, add 50u, Tslim says 50u until you use up the 50u you added, and then continues down afterwards.
   
   Also, I've found that when the Tslim says the cartirdge is empty, there's still around 10-20 units left in it. I usually pull that out with a syringe even when I'm changing cartridges .

(Holy crap, this is a long answer!)

Yes. And the ClimpUps work even better if you lightly dust them on the insides (both compartments) with Cimexa.

Previously people used baby powder or DE (diatomaceous earth) to lightly brushed the insides of these with.

Since you hit on one of my key strategies (sleeping bag instead of free-range bedding), I'll tell you another. But I think ClimbUps are the way to go for you. (You have a serious infestation, no furry pets, and lots of floor space.)

The ClimbUps were/are not ideal for me because:

1. My bedroom is tiny and I kept banging into the traps with my foot and cracking them open
   
   
2. My fluffy border collie produces nonstop dog hair dust bunnies. Within a few days the traps were heaped with dog hair. The bugs may have been able to use the fur as a ladder in and out of the traps.
   
   
3. I had a very low volume of bugs to intercept. Even if I could see past the fluffs of fur, all I found in the traps were ants and other unidentified non-BBs. It wasn't as satisfying of a capture as I hoped it would be.
   
   So I created my own "smaller footprint" traps that sort of visually blend in with the slender metal legs of my bed.
   
   
4. Got 4 frosted glass votive candleholders made of thick, strong glass. They fit around my bed legs with about a 1/2 inch to spare all the way around.
   
   
5. Had some of this stretchy fishnet bandage tube stuff laying around, and made a sleeve for each votive: https://www.amazon.com/Retelast-Tubular-Elastic-Dressings-Restraint/dp/B00XNDAVUU/ref=pd_sim_328_6?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WFQAFCFFW5X3FSG85VKB
   
   Made the sleeve large enough so that the BBs would have something to climb up the outside of the votive, with a little diving platform over the edge so they would drop down into the votive.
   
   
6. Dusted each votive lightly on the inside with DE (will redo them with Cimexa when I get it).
   
   
7. BF lifted up each bed leg so I could put them in place.
   
   I know the glass is somewhat "dangerous" on the floor, but I was more likely to cut my foot on the big plastic ones.
   
   I'm picky about how things look, and my fishnet votive traps blend in so well that I keep them there.
   
   The little ledge of fishnet on the inside helps keep the dog hair out.
   
   Technically my smooth, metal bed legs are a deterrent in and of themselves (because they can't climb super smooth vertical surfaces, but I wanted to also trap the mofos.
   
   If they couldn't get up the metal legs, they might have opted to climb up the walls and dive bomb me.
   
   So I keep the votives there as a preventative for any future ones that come into my life.
   
   I read (from "pirates") that if you have them once, you are more likely to get them again. I can't put my finger on what the logic could be, but I'm a believer.
   
   

You want something called a "bioclusive dressing", like this one.

It'll keep water and gunk out of your ink. Just put some gauze down on of the tattoo.

You can also get ones that only have adhesive around the edges, but gauze will give you a little padding and soak up anything that might weep out of your skin.

Check out [skin tac] (https://www.amazon.com/Skin-tac-adh-oz-Skin-Tac-H/dp/B001LZUWP6/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1466219735&sr=8-4&keywords=skin+tac) and opsite flexi fix


Skintac under the sensor (try not to touch it with your fingers, it gets EXTREMELY sticky!) then cut a hole out the size of the sensor, and place the tape over the white pad.

I get about 3 weeks out of my sensors before they naturally fail. But if I don't stick them down with the tape and skin tac, they fall off in just a couple days.