Kemp USA 2" Porous Cloth Athletic Tape: Field Manual & SOP

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Kemp USA 2" Porous Cloth Athletic Tape: Field Manual & SOP

Category: Medical Tape & Bandages

Difficulty Level: Tier 3: Field Competency Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The Kemp USA 2-inch porous cloth athletic tape is a high-tensile, non-elastic adhesive tape used by EMS, fire-rescue, law enforcement, and athletic training personnel to secure trauma dressings, stabilize splints, and immobilize joints in field conditions.

The 2-inch wide profile is the primary tactical advantage of this tape. A single pass covers the surface area that would require multiple strips of standard 1-inch tape, reducing application time and minimizing failure points. The non-elastic woven cloth backing provides rigid, structural support without give, making it effective for securing SAM splints or board splints above and below a suspected fracture site. The aggressive, high-tack adhesive is latex-free and formulated to resist failure from sweat, friction, and environmental moisture.

The microporous fabric construction allows air and moisture vapor exchange, which reduces the risk of skin maceration during extended wear. This is a critical capability distinction for applications lasting more than a few hours, particularly in austere or high-activity environments. For patients with sensitive or fragile skin, a pre-wrap or skin barrier layer is recommended prior to tape application to prevent blistering or adhesive-related skin tearing.

Proper deployment protocol requires a clean, dry application surface, firm initial pressure to set the adhesive, and a circulation check distal to any circumferential wrap. For limb applications, the operator must verify color, warmth, capillary refill, sensation, and motion after securing. Any signs of circulatory compromise require immediate loosening or removal of the tape.

Field Application Steps

1. SITE PREPARATION: Ensure the skin surrounding the application site is clean and dry. Remove dirt, debris, and excess moisture to maximize adhesive contact and prevent premature tape failure.

2. MEASURE AND TEAR: Unroll the required length of tape from the roll. Use the serrated edges to execute a clean tear by gripping the tape firmly on both sides of the intended tear point and applying a quick, forceful twisting motion. Do not attempt to cut with a dull instrument, as this will fray the edges.

3. INITIAL ANCHOR: Apply the end of the tape strip to the skin or dressing surface. Press down firmly for 2 to 3 seconds to set the adhesive before proceeding.

4. APPLICATION WITH TENSION: Smooth the tape over the target surface with consistent, appropriate tension. For dressing securement, the tape should be taut. For joint support applications, tension will vary according to the specific technique being used.

5. WINDOW PANE TECHNIQUE FOR TRAUMA DRESSINGS: Place the sterile ABD pad or trauma dressing directly over the wound site. Apply one strip across the top edge and one across the bottom edge, ensuring at least 1 to 2 inches of tape adheres to skin on either side of the dressing. Apply a third and fourth strip to the left and right sides, overlapping the corner edges of the first two strips to create a four-sided sealed frame.

6. FIELD SPLINT SECUREMENT: Position the rigid splint material alongside the injured limb, immobilizing the joints above and below the suspected injury. Wrap the 2-inch tape circumferentially above and below the injury site. Never apply tape directly over the suspected fracture.

7. CONSTRICTION CHECK: After each circumferential wrap, verify that the tape is not restricting blood flow. You should be able to slide one to two fingers underneath the secured tape. The objective is to secure the splint, not create a tourniquet.

8. CIRCULATION, SENSATION, AND MOTION ASSESSMENT: After the dressing or splint is fully secured, assess distal circulation, sensation, and motion. For limb applications, check skin color, warmth, and capillary refill distal to the tape. Re-assess CSM frequently during transport to a higher level of care.

9. TERMINATION: Smooth down the final end of each tape strip completely to prevent peeling or edge rollback during movement or transport.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA 2" Porous Cloth Athletic Tape – White (Case of 72)

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.