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
