First Aid Kits

Patient Education

A Well-stocked first-aid kit. kept in the easy reach, is a necessity in every home. Having supplies gathered ahead of time will help you handle an emergency at a moment's notice. You should keep one first aid-kit in your home and one in each car. Be sure to bring the first-aid kit on family vacations.

Choose containers for your kits that are roomy, durable, easy to carry, and simple to open. Plastic boxes or containers are ideal, since they are lightweight, have handles, and offer a lot of space.

Include the following in each of your first-aid kits:

• first-aid manual
• sterile gauze
• adhesive tape
• adhesive bandages in several sizes
• elastic bandage
• antiseptic wipes
• soap
• antibiotic cream
• antiseptic solution like savlon
• acetaminophen or paracetamol
• tweezers
• sharp scissors
• safety pins
• disposable instant cold packs
• calamine lotion
• alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol
• thermometer
• plastic gloves (at least 2 pairs)
• flashlight and extra batteries
• mouthpiece for administering CPR (can be obtained from your local Red Cross)
• your list of emergency phone numbers
• blanket (stored nearby)

After you have stocked your first-aid kits:

• Read the entire first-aid manual so you'll understand how to use the contents of your kits. (If your children are old enough to understand, review with them as well.)
• Store first-aid kits in places that are out of children's reach but easily accessible for adults.
• Check the kits regularly. Replace missing items or those that may have become outdated.