Everyone should have a well-stocked first aid kit at home, in the
car, and in the workplace. You may also want to stock a portable kit (a
box or small bag) that can be taken to the site of an emergency.
It is important to check your kit regularly to restock items that have been used, and to replace items that are out-of-date.
The contents of the kit vary depending upon the number of people it
is designed to protect, as well as its intent for use. Recommended
contents of a first aid kit include the following:
| Instruments | Bandages |
|---|
- bulb syringe
- scissors
- thermometer (oral and rectal)
- tweezers
| - adhesive tape
- butterfly bandages
- elastic bandages
- hypoallergenic tape
- sling (triangular-shaped cloth)
- sterile cotton balls
- sterile eye patches
- sterile gauze pads (4" x 4")
- stretchable gauze roll
- waterproof tape
|
| Medications | Miscellaneous Items |
|---|
- acetaminophen
- antacid
- antibiotic ointment
- antidiarrheal medication
- antihistamine
- aspirin
- antiseptic ointment
- calamine lotion
- decongestant
- hydrocortisone cream
- ibuprofen
- sugar or glucose solution
| - alcohol (rubbing 70 percent)
- alcohol wipes
- blanket
- candles
- chemical ice packs or ice bag
- chemical hot packs or hot water bottle
- cotton swabs
- disposable latex gloves
- face mask for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- first-aid book
- flashlight
- hydrogen peroxide
- insect repellent
- insect sting swabs
- matches
- measuring spoons
- paper and pencil
- paper cups
- soap
- safety pins
- sewing needle
- sunscreen
- tissues
- tongue blades
|
You can also use the following everyday items in the event of an emergency:
- disposable or cloth diapers for compresses, bandages, or padding for splints
- dish towels for bandages or slings
- umbrella, rolled magazine, or layered newspaper for use as a splint
In addition, it is helpful to carry the following items in your car:
- a large blanket
- gallon-size bottle of water
- flashlight and extra batteries
If your child or other family member has special medical needs, be
sure to carry extra medical supplies when you go on an outing or trip.
Some of these items might include the following:
- an insect allergy kit containing medications to be used by persons allergic to insect stings
- medications, syringes, and special equipment or supplies
Be sure any member of your family who has special needs wears a Medic
Alert® bracelet or necklace at all times. Applications are available in
most pharmacies.