Any first aid kit must include tweezers, especially if you like to go hiking or engage in other outdoor activities. Using a fresh set of tweezers is the safest technique to remove a tick or splinter. Before and after each usage, thoroughly clean the tweezers with alcohol.
Gloves and hand sanitizer
The last thing you want to do if you or a buddy sustain an injury while out and about is treat the wound with dirty hands. When soap and water are not readily available, alcohol-based gels or wipes can be used to sanitize your hands. Put on a pair of exam gloves—latex or non-latex—and sterilize them before, during, and after treating the wound.
Relief from pain
Without painkillers and fever-reducers, no first aid kit would be complete. Popular over-the-counter painkillers include aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen. Due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, aspirin should not be administered to anyone under the age of 18.
Tape and gauze
You can apply pressure to tiny wounds from cuts and scrapes with gauze pads until the bleeding stops. When paired with tape, gauze can be used as a bandage to cover and safeguard wounds. Small wounds and scratches can also be protected with adhesive bandages in various sizes.
Wipes or cleaning solution for a wound
You should clean cuts or scrapes before applying a bandage. When there is no clean water available, antiseptic wipes or sprays come in handy for cleansing wounds. For cleaning out eye injuries and treating other wounds, sterile water or saline, such as contact lens saline solution, is useful to have on hand. It might also be convenient to pack because it comes in compact bottles.
Cream antibiotic
There are several important uses for an antibiotic cream or ointment. It can aid in preventing infection in small wounds. It may help the area heal by keeping it moist. Additionally, it can help keep the incision from adhering to a bandage.
Medicines for allergies
Antihistamines should be available to treat mild allergic reactions. Serious allergy sufferers should always have injectable epinephrine on hand. In the event of anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction to triggers like food or insect bites, it can save a life.
Putting your kit together
You’ll need a technique to keep the components of your portable first aid kit clean and dry once you’ve gathered them all. It’s not necessary to purchase a pricey medical bag. A tool kit, fanny pack, or makeup bag that is waterproof will do.