What is the primary purpose of a bandage in soft-tissue injury treatment?

The primary purpose of a bandage in the treatment of soft-tissue injuries is to protect the wound and control bleeding. Bandages serve several critical functions in managing injuries. Firstly, they provide a barrier against environmental contaminants which can lead to infection. This protection is essential for promoting proper healing and reducing the risk of complications. Additionally, by applying pressure to the wound, bandages help to control bleeding, which is crucial in preventing excessive blood loss. They also stabilize the injured area to minimize movement that could exacerbate the injury.

While other options may touch on aspects related to injury management, they do not encapsulate the fundamental role of bandages as effectively as the correct choice does. For example, suturing is a procedure performed by healthcare professionals and is not a function of a bandage. Similarly, while bandages can impact swelling by providing compression, their primary role is broader, focusing on wound protection and bleeding control. Numbing the area is typically achieved through medical interventions, such as local anesthetics, and is not a function of a bandage.