Which wrap is used to support or limit movement at the hand, elbow, knee, ankle, or foot?

• A. Figure 8
• B. Cravat wrap
• C. Spiral wrap
• D. Gauze wrap

Answer: (A)

A figure-8 wrap is used to immobilize a joint by crossing the limb above and below the joint in a looping pattern, which anchors a splint and restricts motion. This pattern distributes pressure around the joint and creates two supportive loops that resist bending or straightening, making it effective for the hand, elbow, knee, ankle, or foot.

Other wraps serve different purposes: a cravat wrap is a versatile sling or tie for dressings and supports, not specifically designed to lock a joint in place; a spiral wrap covers the limb but doesn’t provide the cross-joint stabilization needed to limit movement; a gauze wrap is primarily for dressing wounds and securing dressings, not for immobilizing joints.