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first aid kit

Definition
A first aid kit is a collection of supplies and materials that can be used as a first line of treatment for an injury or illness.

What is the information for this topic? 
First aid kits can either be purchased or made by an individual. Several items are listed below that can be used in a first aid kit. Certain activities are related to risk of certain injuries. People involved in special activities may want to include more of some items in their kits than people who are not involved in those activities. First aid kits can be bought at sporting goods stores, pharmacies and some department stores. The following materials can be useful in a first aid kit.

Bandages should include:
  • adhesive bandage strips or surgical tape in different sizes
  • butterfly bandages 
  • elastic wraps for wrists, ankles, knees and elbows
  • adhesive tape
  • sterile cotton balls, eye patches and gauze pads (10 x 10 cm and 5 x 5 cm)
  • absorbent cotton
  • adhesive gauze, wrapping and rolls
  • triangular bandage
Equipment should include:
  • scissors
  • forceps
  • bulb syringe
  • cotton-tipped swabs
  • paper cups
  • blanket
  • thermometer
  • disposable instant ice bag
  • gloves
Medications should include:
  • Syrup of Ipecac, which should be used only as directed by a poison control centre
  • paracetamol
  • ibuprofen
  • antiseptic solution
  • antibiotic ointment
  • first aid manual
  • change for telephone calls
  • flashlight
  • tissues
  • soap
  • safety pins
  • disposable gloves
Author: James Broomfield, MD
Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel
Editor: Dr John Hearne
Last Updated: 10/05/2005
Contributors
Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
 


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