If you’ve ever been in a “slight” emergency you’ve experienced the appreciation for having on hand a “First Aid” kit (it always seems that what I really need isn’t in it when I need it). So how do you prepare for the unexpected when packing a first aid kit? What you absolutely might need to help you make it through a temporary emergency is the key to what you pack inside. Remember: A first aid kit is merely a first response until you reach professional medical assistance (if necessary). To help you make it to the real help you need is the key to what you put in it.
*Waterproof container/box – Depending upon where it is stored, buying a waterproof box/container is a good start for your first aid contents. If it’s to be kept in your car, home, office or recreational vehicle, make sure the size is appropriate for the storage area and easily accessible when needed.
*Ace bandage - A self adhesive Ace Bandage is a great way to wrap and stabilize an injury until professional help arrives. Learn how to wrap an injury by attending a First Aid class at your local recreation center or American Red Cross.
*Tourniquet Band - Used to stop the flow of blood and only applied in extreme cases of emergency. Again, attend a first aid class to understand the when, how and why to apply a tourniquet before assuming it’s the first application for the situation.
*Band Aids – Buy waterproof band aids in various sizes. Many band aids now come with antibiotic ointment already applied.
*Antibiotic ointment – Neosporin (or its equal) is a good overall antibiotic to have on hand at all times.
*Alcohol wipes – Cleanses the skin’s surface, wiping away immediate germs.
*Heat pack – Heat is applied for acute/chronic conditions, supplying blood flow to the affected area. Products like “Kwik Heat” or instant/activated heat packs can provide temporary comfort to an injury or ache. If swelling is involved, ice is the better application. You activate the heat by “breaking” (bending the pack in two) the pack.
*Cold dry icepack – Most acute injuries (swelling, bruising, fractures, and breaks) occurring within 48 hours will need ice applied immediately. An “activated cold dry icepack” is stored until needed, can help reduce some of the swelling until you reach professional care. Again, the pack is broken/activated the same as the ice pack.
*Benadryl (aka “Diphenhydramine” or equal generic brand) – From airway constriction to sneezing, allergic reactions can be treated temporarily with products like Benadryl or their generic counterparts. However, have your doctor approve this drug for your personal consumption before taking. There are too many “cautions” for taking over the counter drug medication to know whether or not any product is appropriate for you to take. Note: The FDA issued a “warning” (see http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000704/ for more information) stating that it intends to remove some unapproved cold/cough/allergy products from the market which contain Diphenhydramine due to various “risks” found in certain medical products which combine the use of this product along with other product components. Certain prescription drugs and medical conditions warn against using products containing “Diphenhydramine” due to their conflicting results/impact.
*Aspirin – Mostly, for symptoms of a heart attack.
*Gloves – Protects against body fluid contact.
*Scissors – To cut bandages, etc.
*Roller bandages – 3” – 4” width, used to secure a wound dressing in place.
*Gauze pads – 3” x 3” to 4” x 4”. Dress a wound.
*Thermometer – Digital preferred, used to take temperature.
*First Aid Instruction booklet – On hand guide to first aid.
*CPR Mouth barrier or guard – When performing CPR, you need something to guard your mouth from receiving/passing body fluids. A barrier or guard will help to reduce the flow of body fluids.
The American Red Cross offers classes on CPR and basic First Aid. If you are ever in an emergency you’ll be glad you attended one of these classes. For a full list of the ACFAS suggested contents for a kit, visit http://www.redcross.org/images/pdfs/code/First_Aid_Kit_Contents.pdf to start building your kit today. The Red Cross offers classes in everything from First Aid to Lifeguarding and CPR throughout Hampton Roads. To register for a class, visit http://www.seva-redcross.org/Take_A_Class/ClassInfoandRegistration.htm.
Note: Information contained in this blog is not provided by a licensed medical professional and is provide as a guideline only. Always seek a licensed medical caregiver or physician for your wellness and/or advice.
Quick Tips for Wellness: First Aid is your first defense when responding to a potential life threatening situation.
Learn today what to do so if tomorrow comes, you’re ready!
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