Here is my list of handy things to have in your first aid kit.
Tools:
- Scissors - these are good for cutting clothes, bandages etc. Small to medium size should do.
- Fine tooth forceps - For holding onto bits that the fingers are too thick for. Ask the Chemist for either plastic ones or metal.
- A couple of needles - these are good for removing splinters.
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Safety Pins - good for securing bandages etc. 3 small and 3 large will do.
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A couple of fore arm length rods - to use as splints for fractures.
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Cotton Swabs - do not use to cover a wound as the fine fibres will stick to the wound and maybe difficult to remove. Swabs are good for applying the anti-spetic lotion Betedine.
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Disposable gloves can be useful. Consider using them if someone in the family has 'Gastro' and the need is to handle contaminated articles.
Wraps/Bandages:
- Gauze Squares - for wound cover as needed.
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Various sizes gauze bandages.
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- Band Aids - consider allergy free ones, the adhesive may cause a skin reaction. I find material band aids last longer than plastic.
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Sterile Eye pads - 2 is plenty.
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A couple of combine dressings - these can be used for pressure pads and help to absorb drainage from a wound.
Ointments and Lotions:
- 3 Sterile 10ml saline ampules - these are useful to rinse out contaminated eyes and other wounds like 'skinned knees'.
- Betedine - an antiseptic lotion. This is used to reduce potential infection in cuts and grazes.
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Citronella anti-insect repellent - good to keep away the mozzies.
- Stingoes (or equivalent) - for when your kids get bitten by insects, such as wasps, green ants.
- Non-petrochemical Paw Paw ointment. Great for healing grazes, some rashes, sore lips etc.
Other:
- A list of emergency contacts: Ambulance, Poisons number, police etc.
Also, I highly recommend attending a First Aid Course. How to resuscitate a baby/child/adult. What to do in the event of choking, electrocution etc.
