What Are the Items in a First-Aid Kit?

Emergencies are guaranteed to happen when you least expect them, so your first-aid kit should be easily accessible and well stocked. Keep a kit in your home and car, and take one with you on trips.

Disposable Supplies

• For wound care, include adhesive bandages in different sizes, sterile gauze and adhesive tape. Also pack disposable instant cold and hot packs, soap, alcohol pads, antiseptic wipes and two pairs of plastic gloves.

Types of Medications

• KidsHealth.org recommends antibiotic cream, also called triple-antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, hydrocortisone cream, acetaminophen and calamine lotion for a well-stocked first-aid kit.

Other Items

• Include tweezers, scissors, a flashlight with extra batteries, thermometer and mouthpiece to administer CPR. Keep a first-aid manual and a list of emergency numbers inside the kit.

Considerations

• According to KidsHealth.org, the best first-aid kit is light-weight and easy to carry, such as a tackle box or backpack.

Warning

• Replace expired medicines and missing items on a regular basis. If you have young children, be sure to stock your kit with child-strength pain/fever reducers.