The essentials in your first-aid kit prevent minor injuries from turning into major emergencies. It becomes crucial to maintain a first aid kit stocked with supplies so that you’re prepared to handle any kind of injury or emergency before it takes a turn for the worse. Apart from maintaining a first aid kit at home, it is important to have your basics with you in your car or when you’re holidaying. Although, you can purchase a ready-made first aid kit from a drugstore, it is easy to put together one yourself and personalise it according to your family’s individual medical needs. Below, you’ll find the basic supplies that fit in perfectly in a portable medical kit.
Adhesive Bandages
Cuts and scrapes should never be left uncovered. Make sure you include a few adhesive bandages in your kit. If you have children, you can opt for the colourful ones, so that they can wear them with more enthusiasm instead of ripping the bandage off. You should also include bandages for your pet if you have one, after talking to your vet.
Antiseptic Creams And Lotions
It is extremely vital that you thoroughly clean a wound before you put on bandage. Apart from using a simple solution of soap and water, it is advisable that you also rinse out any dirt with an antiseptic lotion so as to prevent an infection. The antiseptic will kill any germs and bacteria that may be thriving in the wound.
Muscle Creams And Sprays
Sprains and backaches are common phenomena, therefore it’s important to have muscle cream, gel or spray in your medical kit to provide instant relief. This is much recommended for people who actively work out, athletes. This is also recommended for those who indulge in adventure trips and sports.
Crepe Bandage
Crepe bandage is designed to apply firm pressure to the affected area. Whether you’re bleeding or have a sprained ankle, crepe bandage is a handy item to include in your first aid kit. Include a 7.5cm-10cm bandage, as it is the most commonly used as well as easy to store.
A Pair Of Tweezers
Make sure you sterilise tweezers with an antiseptic lotion before you use them. A fine-tipped pair of tweezers helps remove foreign objects lodged onto the surface of the skin and can even help with making or undoing knots.
Pain Relievers and Antihistamines
Pain relievers and antihistamines are first aid kit essentials. Pop these medicines to help soothe pain or allergy. In case the symptom is persistent, these medicines help provide temporary relief while you rush to the doctor’s.
Thermometer And Fever Medication
Any first-aid kit is incomplete without a thermometer. Opt for a digital thermometer over a mercury thermometer as advised by doctors. Additionally, if you have kids and pets, an ear canal thermometer is recommended.
Blood Pressure Machine
A BP machine is a must for blood-pressure patients who are travelling. Regular monitoring allows patients and their physicians to jointly engage and optimize treatment of hypertension more efficiently.