By: Stephanie Shabangu, Penfield Children’s Center
Reviewed by: Melissa Hendrickson, RN, Penfield Children’s Center

When you have young ones in the house, being prepared for cuts and scrapes is a must! An easy way to stay organized is to have an accessible first aid kit in your house and car. First aid kits can be purchased from a local American Red Cross chapter, a convenience store or, you can make one yourself.

Every first aid kit should not only include necessary medical items, but it’s also convenient to have a list of emergency phone numbers (Poison Control, your child’s doctor, etc.) as well. In addition, check your kit every now and then to make sure nothing has expired or run out of battery power.

If you choose to make a first aid kit yourself, some of the essentials include:

• First Aid and Hands-Only CPR booklet
• Antibiotic ointment
• Non-latex gloves
• Scissors
• Band-aids (a variety of sizes)
• Blanket
• Hydrocortisone ointment
• Thermometer (non-mercury)
• Tweezers
• Antiseptic wipes
• Soap
• Gauze
• Instant cold packs
• Flashlight (with extra batteries)

Make sure to store your first aid kit out-of-reach of small children, as this could pose a safety hazard if the kit is opened.

If you are planning a long hike or a camping trip, you might also pack specific items such as bug spray and/or aloe vera gel to ward of pesky mosquitoes or soothe a sun burn.

First aid kits not only help you as a parent stay prepared for the bumps and bruises that come with raising busy kids, but also allow you the peace of mind that you are prepared to treat minor injuries and won’t need to make an unnecessary run to the pharmacist or clinic. However, if your child sustains an injury that cannot be treated with a small bandage or complains of continuing pain or discomfort, it is advised that you speak to a medical professional just in case follow-up care is needed.

What other unique items have you included in your first aid kits?

References:

http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/firstaid-kit.html

http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family/get-kit/anatomy

http://www.wta.org/hiking-info/basics/like-your-life-depends-on-it-building-your-first-aid-kit