1) Tweezers. A pair of tweezers is imperative for those that enjoy doing outdoor activities such as hiking. Tweezers are the best way to take out a splinter and clean out the debris of a wound. All you have to make sure in doing is disinfecting it properly before and after each use.
2) Hydrocortisone Cream. You never know when you might get an itchy bite. To prevent inflammation and itch, you should always carry at least two packets of 1% hydrocortisone cream in your first aid kit.
3) Hand Sanitizer and Gloves. One of the worst things that can happen when you are stuck in a place where water is not readily available is getting a cut or wound. You do not want to touch a wound with dirty hands. Therefore, it is imperative that you carry hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes for these types of emergencies. When treating a wound, you should sanitize your hands before slipping in the gloves and you should sanitize after you have treated the wound. This will ensure that you do not pass germs to your wound or scrape.
4) Pain Relievers. You must carry pain relievers in your first aid kit. If you ever experience pain and want to reduce fever, over the counter medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin are the best options. But do not give children, under the age of 18, any aspirin because of the danger of Reye’s syndrome.
5) Gauze and Tape. Gauzes are one of the most important things to carry in your first aid kit. You can use gauzes to apply pressure to a wound. Furthermore, you can use gauze and tape to cover and protect a wound. Along with gauzes, the adhesive gauzes can provide great protection for scrapes and minor cuts.
6) Sanitizing solution and wipes. Sanitizing wipes are probably one of the most important parts of your first aid kit. Wipes are imperative when cleaning out a wound especially if you don’t have access to clean water. Contact cleaning solution is great for cleaning out eye injuries and even other wounds. Contact lenses cleaning solution can be bought in small bottles and are easy to carry into your first aid kit.
7) Antibiotic Cream. Carrying an antibiotic cream is a great idea because it can maintain a wound moist—key for promoting healing. An antibiotic cream can also prevent a cut from getting an infection and prevents the bandage from getting stuck to the wound.
8) Allergy Medication. Sometimes an allergic reaction to a certain food or an insect sting can cause serious problems especially if you are outdoors. For people with severe allergies, they should always carry their epinephrine pens. The importance of being prepared for an allergic reaction can save you from anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction to certain foods or insect stings that can results in death if not handled promptly.
9) After you have picked out all your first aid essentials, you can carry them in any bag that is waterproof so that everything stays clean and dry.
Not intended to offer medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional!
Valley Occupational Medical Center 