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:

Absorbent compresses (Sterile Gauze Pads, 6-12)

Various adhesive bandages (e.g. Bandaids)

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.