Health Encyclopedia |
First-Aid Kits 101 Whether you’re at home or in your car, a first-aid kit should be readily available in case of an emergency, and certain items should always be included.
Every house should contain one first-aid kit stored in the kitchen or bathroom and another in the garage or garden shed. Each
vehicle used by a family should also contain a first-aid kit. According to the American Red Cross and James Purgason, M.D., family medicine physician on the medical staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton, essential items every kit should contain include:
• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Adhesive bandages (including the latex-free variety) in several sizes
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic wipes or lotion
• BENADRYL® for allergic reactions
• Epinephrine injector kit for individuals with life-threatening allergies
• Hydrocortisone cream for insect bites
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Soap
• Sterile wrap
• Thermometer
“Families should perform annual reviews of their first-aid kits -- the switch to Daylight Savings Time in the spring is a good time to do so -- to ensure no items have expired,” says Dr. Purgason. “Children should begin learning how to use the contents of a first-aid kit around age 5 or 6.”
Are you prepared for minor emergencies? If not, we can help! For a complimentary mini first-aid kit, visit TexasHealth.org/FirstAidKit.
(Summer 2011) |
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