By Adrian Sparrow
NeuLine Health
What To Have In An At-Home First-Aid Kit
When disaster strikes, it’s important to be prepared. From earaches to earthquakes, a first-aid kit comes in handy for any emergency. To be ready for anything, here’s a list of necessities to put in your home’s first aid kit.
Basic Supplies and Bandages
Although you likely keep a box of adhesive bandages in your medicine cabinet, they can only cover minor wounds. For any injury larger than a quarter, it’s a good idea to stock up on larger bandages and splints.
- Absorbent compress dressings
- Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
- Adhesive cloth tape
- Rubber tourniquet
- Gauze pads
- Roller bandages
- Large triangular bandage (can be used as a splint)
- Aluminum finger splint
- Breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
- Oral thermometer (non-mercury)
- Instant cold compress
Check Your Closet!
These are common supplies, and you might already be well-stocked. It’s a good idea to be prepared for any disaster, not just a medical one. Also, consider what you might need for common natural disasters in your area, and stay well-stocked on needs like water and batteries.
- Cotton balls and swabs
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Superglue
- Hand sanitizer
- Disposable non-latex gloves (several pairs)
- Waterproof matches
- Waterproof flashlight and extra batteries
- Emergency blanket
- Emergency phone numbers (Contact info for family doctor, local emergency services, and the poison health line)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
Ointments and Creams
There’s no use putting a bandage on a dirty wound, where infection can fester. Keep a variety of creams in your kit for cleaning and pain relief.
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic wipes
- Eyewash solution
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Petroleum jelly
- Hydrocortisone
- Aloe vera
- Calamine lotion
Medications
Be sure to keep any personal prescriptions on hand that don’t require refrigeration. In between uses, check to make sure nothing has expired.
- Anti-diarrhea medication
- Laxative
- Antacids
- Antihistamine
- Cough, cold medications
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
- Aspirin
- Auto-injector of epinephrine (if prescribed)
You can also purchase pre-packed first aid kits for your home, car, and workplace.
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