What should be in your first aid box – A guide

Having a well prepared first aid box within your reach is a great help in emergencies. You’ve got to stock up one at home, in your car and whenever you are travelling to distant places. A first aid box helps a great deal even before the doctor comes up.

There are many first aid kits available at medical stores too. Alternatively you can make up one according to your own wish list. In such a case you can opt for making a big first aid box that has all the solutions to all injuries, wounds are similar problems that could require immediate attention.

There are a few must haves in your first aid box that must never be missed out. They are-

Sterile gauze pads of all sizes Elastic bandage Adhesive bandage Antiseptic wipes Antiseptic hand wash or soap Antiseptic solution Splint Acetaminophen and ibuprofen Antiseptic cream Scissors Tweezers Safety pins Latex gloves Mouthpiece for examining

Emergency phone numbers’ list Mild painkiller medicine Painkilling ointment Common cold and fever medications that suit your needs Medicated cotton ball Thermometer If possible, a blanket Crepe bandage Calamine lotion Disposable cold packs Torch light with extra batteries Alcohol wipes

These are some things that your first aid box must have without fail. Among the other things that you must keep in mind is the storage area for the first aid kit. It must be stored in a cool and dry place. This kit must not be within the reach of kids and pets, if any. Your first aid kit must be kept within your immediate reach in emergencies.

After you’ve attended to the patient in emergencies it is important to call the doctor for further diagnosis to avoid any complications. In case your first aid kit doesn’t help in the emergency, it is important to rush the patient to the doctor.

In case of minor injuries, wounds or illness the first aid kit would suffice. If any of the family members is suffering from a long term illness and you are planning a vacation, you must never forget to carry all the necessary medicines with the first aid box. It is also important to carry all the necessary things that might be required in case of an emergency with that patient on the vacation. For this consultation with the doctor in advance is advised.

The most important thing is to be careful with yourselves and children to avoid medical emergencies as it has been well said ‘Prevention is better than cure’.