Published on 27 January 2025
A comprehensive first aid kit can be a lifesaver for every home and community. It ensures preparedness to deal with minor injuries and emergencies promptly and can reduce the chances of complications from serious ailments till professional help arrives. However, it should be well stocked and checked regularly to ensure that it is indeed useful at times of need.
Personal Protective equipment (PPE)
Basic personal protective equipment such as face masks and disposable gloves should be included in the first aid kit. These help to protect the provider as well as the victim from infection. A hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol should also be included for hand hygiene, as an alternative where soap and water are not available. A disposable bag may also be included to dispose used material.
Medications
Medications such as pain relievers, antiallergy medications and oral rehydration solutions should be included in the kit. In addition, it should also contain medications prescribed by physicians to treat ailments that a person may be prone to. For example, people who suffer from severe allergic reactions may need to include an epinephrine auto-injector in their kit. The medications should be regularly checked to ensure that they are within the expiry date.
Bandages and Dressings
Dressings, such as surgical cotton rolls, antiseptic wipes, adhesive dressings, absorbent gauze, sterile pads, eye pads and sterilised paraffin gauze, are needed to cover wounds, control bleeding and prevent infection. Bandages including crepe, compressed roller and triangular bandages, and adhesive plasters/surgical tape should also be included in the kit.
Other items
Additional items such as tweezers, scissors, a pen-light or battery-powered torch, and a digital thermometer may be useful and should be included in the first aid kit . A pulse oximeter may help in assessing blood oxygen saturation. Specialised items such as a resuscitation mask or face shield, an epinephrine auto-injector, ice packs and splints, and a defibrillator may be included in a first aid kit maintained by the community center.
Though first aid is vital in saving lives in emergencies, it is essential to reach professional care at the earliest. Contact numbers of local ambulances and hospitals should be pasted on the first aid kit. The kit should be maintained in an accessible place and stored under conditions recommended by the manufacturers of the contents.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this site is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor or healthcare professional, or the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her existing physician. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider for any medical condition, procedure, or treatment.
Insights on Health and Wellness 