Buying or arranging together a first aid kit can be a daunting task. Most situations that require first aid kits are time-sensitive and delicate, and everyone should ensure that their aid kit has every necessary item.
However, looking for first aid kit refills can become confusing very quickly because of the numerous options in the market. Additionally, ensuring that all medical supplies are quality products can be taxing, but worry not because this guide has everything one needs to know about first aid kits.
How do First Aid Kits help?
A well-equipped first aid kit can help in stabilising serious injuries and treating minor ones.
These kits usually have antiseptics to clean wounds and gauze to dress minor cuts, lacerations and burns. With injuries, wrapping and temporary dressing can stabilise the situation by preventing blood loss. In case of fractures, splinting can hold the bone in place and prevent unnecessary pain.
Accidents occur regularly in public spaces, and everyone should have a first aid kit to be prepared. Get certified in cpr first aid training and first aid training with our comprehensive course. Learn life-saving skills that can make a difference in emergencies.
Buying Supplies for a First Aid Kit
Conforming Bandages
These stretchy bandages conform to body contours and are perfect for keeping dressings in place. Their material is typically synthetic and flexible. Ensure that the cloth is lightweight, resistant to fraying, and breathable.
Compression or Crepe Bandages
These thick bandages keep everything in place and are wrapped tight across sprained limbs. They aren’t used for open injuries but work best in the case of sprains and strains.
One can assess its quality by feeling its fabric. The cloth should be sturdy and smooth with small gaps to make it breathable. Ensure that the securing hook is resistant to rust and sturdy as well.
Bandaids
Adhesive bandages are a first aid kit staple. They help in treating tiny cuts and injuries perfectly and require no additional ointments. Bandaids are the most popular first aid kit refills as their usage is frequent, so ensure to buy in bulk. The best band aids are medicated, water-resistant and come with long-lasting adhesives!
Antiseptics and Burn Ointments
Most antiseptics and ointments have already been certified and work well. Choosing one is based on preference, but always opt for hypoallergenic and natural medicines!
Cotton Rolls
Cotton is the most absorbent material and all-natural as well. It is lightweight and one of the essential products in a cpr and first aid certification.
Medical Scissors
First aid kits require a pair of scissors to maintain a clean and bacteria-free environment. One needs scissors to cut away clothes during an emergency and bandages for dressings.
Nitrile Gloves
Every medical professional or first aid provider requires gloves to keep the wound clean. Nitrile gloves are easy to wear, sturdy and resistant to tears, making them perfect first aid tools.
Forceps
Medical forceps come in handy when dealing with embedded glass shards or thorns. It is crucial to remove any foreign objects before dressing a wound, and this tool helps in precision while doing so. Using a pair of sterilised forceps also keeps the injury from opening further.
Finger Splints and Universal Splints
Broken fingers and arms are the most common injuries seen. In such cases, the damage is not visible and needs to be assessed in a hospital immediately. However, one needs to stabilise the injury to lessen the pain and extent of injury by using a splint. Ensure that the material is sturdy and not itchy.
Surface Wipes
Sanitation is crucial in medical situations, and surface wipes are the quickest way to clean an area.