Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere, especially in the least expected way possible. Sometimes, a small incident that is not life-threatening can be lethal when not treated properly. That is why it is important to always have a family first aid kit at home and also during family travels. Families must also have knowledge in basic first aid administration so they can use any first aid kit to help any person in need.
First aid kits are good investments because it offers immediate action and relief when an injury happens. What makes them more efficient is that they are mobile enough to throw in a bag and get it in a moment’s notice. Items that are quick and easy to use for treating major or minor injuries, as well as the surgical supplies that are usually available in the kit, helps take care of conditions that are treatable. Here are the ten essential items needed in every family first aid kit.
1. First Aid Manual and Emergency Phone Numbers
Not all people are expected to be proficient in using medical supplies even as simple as those that are in first aid kits. Knowledge is also a weapon, so it is important that a first aid kit must have first aid manuals to educate the person using it. Emergency phones loaded with emergency hotlines is also important, especially when it comes to calamities and the family is isolated because of the situation.
2. Antiseptic Wash Or Wipes
Wounds are usually cleaned before being treated. Although water is usually used when cleaning the wound, it can also cause septic infection. Instead of using water, an antiseptic wash or wipes are recommended because it kills germs and infectious bacteria and prevents it from spreading.
3. Sterile Gauze Pads And Adhesive Bandages
After treatment, the wound needs to be covered in order to prevent contact in the environment which can provide contamination. Gauze is also a good item in controlling bleeding.
4. Scissors
Scissors are used to cut the gauze, the clothes of the patient, as well as the adhesive tapes or other things. In addition, this tool is multi-purpose and can be used in other purposes.
5. Insect Repellant Cream and Instant Pain Relief Spray
When the family is camping, elements of nature won’t care about your family’s skin. To reduce and minimize insect bites, a safe insect repellant cream is advised. When an unexpected accident happens and it involves muscle strain, instant pain relief will help in numbing the pain.
6. Painkillers
Some of the painkillers, especially the over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (OTC NSAIDs), are effective in stopping pain brought by headaches, muscle aches, and more kinds of pain. What makes it a better choice for first aid kits is that it can also reduce fever, which makes it a multi-purpose item.
7. Instant Cold Packs
Instant cold packs are also a good multi-purpose item and are one of the most used items when it comes to minor injuries. When applied to a swelling or bruising injury, it slows the flow of blood to decrease the swelling. It can also be used to ease itch from stings and bites.
8. Antibacterial Medication
An antibacterial oil or ointment is a good thing to have in the kit because it can serve as a cleaning material for the wound as well as a help in covering it safely. It usually has bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin that helps in preventing the growth of bacteria. A lot of people refer to it as betadine even though betadine is a brand of an antibacterial ointment.
9. Tweezers
A tweezer is a handy tool that can help in extracting small objects such as thorns, ticks, and stingers. They offer great assistance even for those people who don’t have gentle hands.
10. Travel Medications
These medications are used for traveling families that encounter minor health problems in the road. Aspirin, Anti-histamine, throat lozenges and oral rehydration are good items to have when on the road.
The Importance Of A Good First Aid Kit Container
Although the content of a first aid kit is important, the container is also an important part of the package. When the storage container used is not waterproof, all the items inside will be useless during a flood. When it is not shock-resistant, the items will be destroyed during a big impact. It is recommended to find a good container for your kit for efficiency.
