Health & Fitness
Your First Step to First Aid
It usually happens like this: You’re at home, slicing and dicing vegetables for a delicious meal when – ouch! – you accidentally slice your finger instead. Having a well stocked first aid kit will help you handle a minor injury at a moments notice. There should be a first aid kit in your home and inside each family member’s car. Remember to also bring a first aid kit along on vacations and trips.
First aid kits can be purchased at various retail outlets, or you can make one of your own. If making one yourself, be sure to use a sturdy container that is easy to open. Arts and crafts supply boxes are often a good option, as they have handles for easy carrying and usually have plenty of space for everything. Generally, a first aid kit should contain:
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Absorbent compresses (Sterile Gauze Pads, 6-12)
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Various adhesive bandages (e.g. Bandaids)
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Adhesive cloth tape
Bacitracin antibiotic ointment
Alcohol wipes or peroxide
Hydrocortisone 1% ointment
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Instant cold compress
Rolled gauze bandages
Elastic bandage (e.g. ACE wrap)
Tweezers
Scissors
Non-latex gloves
Oral or forehead thermometer
First aid instruction booklet
Once the kit is assembled, it is important to review the instruction booklet so that you know how to use the contents of the kit. Be sure to go over this information with older children, too. Store first aid kits somewhere that is accessible for adults but out of the reach of small children. Also, be sure to check your kits regularly, to replace any expired medicines inside.