Core Components Every First Aid Kit Must Have

A first aid kit is only as useful as its contents and your knowledge of how to use them. These essential items form the foundation of any effective kit.

Wound Care Supplies:

Adhesive Bandages:

- Various sizes (1/2" to 2") - Minimum 25 assorted - Fabric type preferable - Include butterfly closures - Waterproof options

Gauze and Dressings:

- 4x4 inch sterile gauze pads (10-20) - 2x2 inch gauze pads (10) - Non-adherent pads for burns - Rolled gauze (2", 3", 4" widths) - Elastic wrap bandages (2-3)

Securing Materials:

- Medical tape (1" and 2") - Self-adhering wrap - Safety pins - Bandage clips - Triangular bandages (2)

Cleaning and Protection:

Antiseptic Supplies:

- Alcohol wipes (20+) - Antiseptic wipes - Hydrogen peroxide (small bottle) - Antibiotic ointment packets - Saline solution or eye wash

Protective Equipment:

- Nitrile gloves (5+ pairs) - CPR face shield/mask - Instant cold compresses (3) - Plastic bags for waste - Hand sanitizer

> Quick Reference Box: > - Replace expired items yearly > - Check supplies every 3 months > - Store between 60-80°F > - Keep inventory list updated > - Note expiration dates

Tools and Instruments:

Cutting Tools:

- EMT/trauma shears - Small scissors - Safety razor - Knife or multi-tool

Medical Instruments:

- Digital thermometer - Tweezers (pointed tips) - Magnifying glass - Penlight/flashlight - Tongue depressors

Measurement Tools:

- Blood pressure cuff (if trained) - Pulse oximeter - Ruler or tape measure - Watch with second hand

Medications (Check Expiration Dates):

Pain/Fever Relief:

- Acetaminophen (adults & children) - Ibuprofen (adults & children) - Aspirin (for heart attacks) - Topical pain relief gel

Other Medications:

- Antihistamine (Benadryl) - Hydrocortisone cream - Burn gel/aloe vera - Anti-diarrheal medication - Antacid tablets

Emergency Medications:

- Epinephrine auto-injector (if prescribed) - Glucose tablets/gel - Activated charcoal (poison control) - Prescription medications