Medical emergencies can happen at any time to any one. It is important to always be ready when such a mishap occurs, as depending on where you are, it may be take a little time before the injured person can arrive at the closest health clinic or hospital. As a result, it is a great idea that you carry with you a small, mobile first aid kit. But what exactly should the kit be comprised of? Listed below are the most important items that should be included in all first aid kits.
First Aid Manual - Make sure you read and include a first aid manual so that you will be able to understand how to properly apply the items in the kit to the injured person. If you have children who are old enough to read, you should review with then the manual ahead of time.
Bandages & Gauze - Perhaps the most obvious item, bandages and gauze should be included for any injuries involving scratches or scrapes. Scissors should also be added so that you have something to cut the gauze with. Anti-biotic ointment can be important here in order to minimize the chances of infection incurred by the injury you wish to cover.
Instant Cold Packs - Cold packs are best for any bumps, bruising or swelling. Instant cold packs can be stored in your first aid kit. Once needed, squeezing the pack will trigger a chemical reaction within it making the pack as cold as ice almost instantaneously.
Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen Doses - These medications are important for fever and pain relief. You should ensure that there is enough for all members of your family, and that certain dosage is age-appropriate if you have any children. It is also a good idea to include a digital ear thermometer to determine whether someone has a fever.
Tweezers - Tweezers are critical for removing dirt, splinters or ticks from an open wound.
Latex Gloves - Any first aid treatment that is administered to an injured person should be done with latex gloves, in order to prevent any infection and to maintain the cleanliness of the wounded area.
Emergency Contacts - A list of emergency phone numbers should be attached to the inner part of the first aid kit. Included in the list should be the contact information for the local poison control centre.
For more information about how to set up a proper first aid kit for you and your family, please go to https://firstaidzone.ca/
