A first aid box, also known as a first aid kit or medical kit, is a collection of supplies and equipment used to give immediate medical treatment, primarily to treat injuries and other mild or moderate medical conditions. It is important to have a well-stocked first aid kit in your home, car, and workplace so you can deal with minor accidents and injuries. The contents of a basic first aid kit may include:
- Adhesive bandages (Band-Aids) in several sizes
- Sterile gauze pads of different sizes
- Adhesive tape
- Elastic bandage
- Triangular bandages
- Crepe rolled bandages of varying widths
- Disposable sterile gloves
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Alcohol-free cleansing wipes
- Soap
- Hand sanitizer
- Antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
- Sterile water, saline (saltwater), or irrigation solution and a large syringe for washing cuts
- Thermometer (preferably digital)
- Painkillers such as paracetamol (or infant paracetamol for children), aspirin (not to be given to children under 16), or ibuprofen
- Antihistamine cream or tablets
- Distilled water for cleaning wounds
- Eye wash and eye bath
- First-aid manual or instruction booklet
It is important to keep the first aid kit locked and out of the reach of children. You can purchase first aid kits from your local pharmacy or from providers such as St John Ambulance Australia. You can also make your own first aid kit using containers that are roomy, sturdy, easy to carry, and simple to open. It is recommended to check the kit regularly and replace any supplies that are getting low or have expired.
