A bandage is a versatile wound dressing or supportive textile used in medical and first aid applications. Its primary functions include protecting wounds from external contaminants, applying pressure to control bleeding, and providing immobilization or support to injured areas of the body. Modern bandages are constructed from a wide array of materials, including sterile gauze, elastic knit fabrics, and specialized synthetic polymers, each chosen based on the severity of the injury and the desired mechanical properties. The application of these dressings can range from simple coverage over superficial abrasions to complex systems designed to maintain specific levels of compression or to facilitate controlled healing through moisture retention.