10 Must Haves in your First-Aid Kits
It is important that all workplaces and any organisation has a well-constructed and an organised first aid kit, ensuring that should a medical emergency arise, those within the vicinity can be prepared to help and potentially save a life.
It is recommended for anyone to complete a first aid course to provide you with any skills or knowledge that may be needed to help out when first aid assistance is required.
First aid kits are sold in different shapes and sizes, with St John Ambulance and the Australian Red Cross selling them, as well as some pharmacies, service stations, large retail outlets, motoring organisations and charities. If you would prefer to make your own med kit, according to Medibc, these are the 10 essential items that you need for your sports first aid kit;
1. Instant Ice Pack
Ideal for treating strains, sprains, inflamed areas and insect bites. An instant ice pack is convenient as no freezing or refrigeration is needed, and you’ll get around 20 minutes of cool relief.
2. Alcohol Wipes
Alcohol wipes are ideal for sanitising skin when you don’t have soap and water on hand. This makes them perfect for treating minor cuts and scrapes before applying a dressing.
3. Crepe bandages
They’re stretchy cotton bandages that are useful for many different types of injuries. Use them at the site of sprains and strains to reduce swelling or to cover a cut. Crepe bandages will also support a sore joint without the need for surgical tape or safety pins. You can simply tie them in place.
4. Disposable Gloves
Worn when treating an injury to prevent a wound from getting infected or bodily fluids being passed from either the patient or carer. Use hand sanitiser before and after putting them on to keep your hands clean
5. Antiseptic Cream Sachets
Antiseptic cream sachets are a convenient way to relieve pain and prevent infection on the go. Apply antiseptic cream after cleansing a wound and before applying a dressing.
6. Saline Pads
Use these for cleansing the eye or nose if there is something stuck in there or as eye or nose drops in case of irritation due to allergies. You can also use them for cleaning wounds and burns. The one-time-use pods are sterile and completely safe to use.
7. Eye Pad
Used if there is an injury to the eye. You can apply one after cleansing the eye using a saline solution. It fits neatly around the eye socket, protecting the eye from infection.
8. Triangular Bandage
You can use this as a sling in the case of sprains or fractures. It will also support injured hands, wrists, arms, elbows and shoulders, immobilising them to prevent further injury. Triangular bandages are a staple of first aid kits and can be washed and reused if necessary.
9. Wound Dressings
Wound dressings will not only provide a cover to prevent infection, but they can also be used to stem blood flow in an emergency. Keep a variety of different sizes in your first aid kit so that you are prepared for every occasion.
10. Rescue Blanket
A rescue blanket is used on an injured person and will help retain their body heat. They are especially helpful in treating shock and hypothermia
If you have any interest in purchasing a med kit, here is the link for further information.
https://www.medibc.com/au/first-aid-kits/sports-clubs-trainers?p=2
Resource for the items and information;
https://www.medibc.com/au/blog/10-essential-items-for-your-sports-first-aid-kit/
-Nash Neary
