Having a first aid kit is vital because accidents can occur anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. It is essential to always have the necessary supplies nearby in case of an emergency requiring medical assistance

What is a first aid kit –

A first aid kit is a box that holds all the equipment, medications, and cleansing solutions you will need to give first aid to yourself or someone else.
You and other people, including your support person, can use your first-aid kit.

Having a first aid kit is important for several reasons:

1. Quick response: A first aid kit allows for a quick response to an injury, which can prevent it from getting worse.

2. Saving lives: In many severe cases, having a first aid kit nearby with the necessary supplies can help to stabilize a person until necessary medical assistance arrives.

3. Convenience: Having a first aid kit on hand makes it more convenient to address injuries at home, in the car, or while traveling. It reduces the need to seek medical attention for minor injuries, saving time and money.

4. Reassurance: The presence of a first aid kit instills confidence and reassurance among students, parents, and staff, knowing that medical assistance is readily available if needed. First aid kits can be purchased at your nearby drugstores or you can put your own together whichever you want according to your activities.

MedBound Times connected with Dr. Shreya Dave, MBBS, and here is what the doctor has to say about the importance of a well-stocked first aid kit -

According to Mayo Clinic, a first aid kit should include:

Basic supplies

• Adhesive tape.

• Elastic wrap bandages.

• Bandage strips and "butterfly" bandages in assorted sizes.

• Super glue.

• Rubber tourniquet.

• 14 French catheter.

• Nonstick sterile bandages and roller gauze in assorted sizes.

• Eye shield or pad.

• Large triangular bandage, which may be used as a sling.

• Aluminum finger splint.

• Instant cold packs.

• Cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs.

• Disposable nonlatex examination gloves, several pairs.

• Duct tape.

• Petroleum jelly or other lubricant.

• Plastic bags, assorted sizes.

• Safety pins in assorted sizes.

• Scissors and tweezers.

• Hand sanitizer.

• Antibiotic ointment.

• Antiseptic solution and towelettes.

• Eyewash solution.

• Thermometer.

• Turkey baster or other bulb suction device for flushing wounds.

• Sterile saline for irrigation, flushing.

• Breathing barrier or surgical mask.

• Syringe, medicine cup or spoon.

• First-aid manual.

• Hydrogen peroxide to disinfect.

Medications

• Aloe vera gel.

• Calamine lotion.

• Anti-diarrhea medicine.

• Laxative.

• Antacids.

• Antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine.

• Hydrocortisone cream.

• Cough and cold medicines.

• Personal medicines that don't need refrigeration.

• Auto-injector of epinephrine, if prescribed by a healthcare professional.

• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others).

However, do not take aspirin if you are allergic to it, have bleeding problems, take another blood-thinning medicine, or if a healthcare professional has previously advised against it.

Never give aspirin to children.

Emergency items

• Emergency phone numbers, including contact information for your family healthcare team and pediatrician, local emergency services, emergency road service providers, and the poison help line.

• Medical consent forms for each family member.

• Medical history forms for each family member.

• Health insurance information, including member numbers and phone numbers.

• Small, waterproof flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries.

• Waterproof matches.

• Small notepad and waterproof writing instrument.

• Emergency space blanket.

• Cellphone with solar charger.

Regular maintenance and check-ups:

It is very important to maintain your first aid kit. Items can expire and used supplies need to be replaced. Maintaining a checklist or conducting periodic reviews of the kit's contents can help ensure that it always remains ready for use when needed.

Training and Knowledge:

In addition to having the necessary first aid kit, it is important to know how to use it. Children in schools should be taught how to use it, as incidents can occur outside of school as well. There are numerous programs available that teach essential first aid techniques.

MedBound Times connected with Dr. Shanjitha, MD Internal Medicine, and here is what the doctor has to say about the importance of a well-stocked first aid kit -

Conclusion:

A well-stocked first aid kit is an indispensable tool in ensuring safety and preparedness in various settings. By understanding its importance, customizing it to specific needs, and maintaining it regularly, you can be ready to provide immediate care during emergencies, potentially saving lives and minimizing the impact of injuries.

Reference-

1. First-aid kits: Stock supplies that can save lives. (2024, July 3). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-kits/basics/art-20056673#:~:text=A%20well%2Dstocked%20first%2Daid,the%20reach%20of%20young%20children.

2. Preparing Your First Aid Kit. (n.d.). CT.gov - Connecticut’s Official State Website. https://portal.ct.gov/advocatescorner/life-tips/your-safety/preparing-your-first-aid-kit

3. Importance of a First Aid Box in Schools. (2023, November 24). Hansaplast. https://www.hansaplastindia.com/articles/health-and-protection/first-aid/importance-of-a-first-aid-box-in-schools

4. why is it important to have a first aid kit. (n.d.). https://www.gauke.com/news/have-a-first-aid-kit

By SIMRAN SETHI