Every home should have a first aid cabinet stocked with all the basic supplies needed to take care of minor cuts and scrapes immediately after an accident occurs. Household accidents are very common and some people are more prone to injuries than others. Even when people are trying to be careful, accidents can happen at any time. There are several items to include in any first aid kit that can help anyone treat a minor injury and avoid a frantic and unnecessary trip to the nearest medical station.
Every medical cabinet should include an assortment of band-aids in various shapes and sizes. Plastic strips are thinner and will stretch easily when placed over a cut on a joint like the knuckle or knee. These can be left in place until the injury has completely healed and will allow the joint to bend. Woven strips are thicker and more durable. They can be used on wounds located on other areas of the body.
Gauze pads are more appropriate for use on a larger wound on the leg or arm. These pads are specially designed to protect the wound from debris but still allow air to flow through for proper healing. The size of the affected area will determine which size pad to use. Keep an assortment of sizes on hand so you are ready for anything. Always apply a small amount of antibiotic cream to the wound before applying the gauze and make sure it is secure but not too tight over the wound. The antibiotic contains products that will help the wound heal faster and avoid the risk of developing a dangerous infection that can make a minor injury more severe.
All first aid kits should include some kind of specially formulated eye wash. Any time dirt, debris or a foreign object gets into the eyes and makes them water or burn they should be flushed thoroughly with a suitable solution. Once the eye has been cleared of debris it is still a good idea to see a doctor to make sure there has been no physical damage to the eyeball. Sometimes small pieces of debris can scratch the cornea. Invest in a manual that outlines various first aid techniques, so there is something to reference if you are not sure how to treat an injury. A manual that outlines simple emergency procedures will come in handy in an emergency situation because it can help eliminate the feeling of panic that comes along with not knowing what to do.
Many homeowners will mount a small emergency cabinet stocked with supplies somewhere in the home. The bathroom, garage and kitchen are all suitable places to keep various emergency supplies. These are high traffic areas and rooms where accidents typically occur. The cabinet should be mounted low enough that everyone in the family can get to it. Make sure everyone
knows exactly where the supplies are kept and how to use the various items found inside.