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BabyPartner checklists: first aid

A first aid kit is something every parent hopes they will never need to use. But if the time comes when it is needed, it could turn out to be the most important thing you ever prepared.

The American Red Cross offers excellent one or two day first aid courses. These courses are reasonable and will give you the training necessary to provide basic first aid until the paramedics arrive. Kids are prone to accidents and every parent should take a first aid course so that they can be prepared.

Perhaps the best thing that first aid courses can teach is the knowledge to avoid panic. Panic can paralyze the unwary and turn a simple problem into something far worse.

The following list is comprehensive. It is not necessary to buy everything listed here, but to remain within the limits of your knowledge and training. After completing your first aid training you may feel that you should be thoroughly prepared! After you have completed your first aid kit, remember to check the items contained in it at least twice a year. Replace anything that is out of date or if you are running short!

Basic trauma care

  • First aid guide
  • An excellent book is published by the Red Cross in conjuction with their courses
  • Emergency contact numbers
  • Download ours for free!
  • Antibacterial handwash
  • Antibacterial lotion
  • Antiseptic ointment or liquid (such as neosporin)
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Band-Aids
  • Bandages (elastic wrap / Ace Wrap)
  • Elastic bandanges can be difficult to apply; you may prefer to use regular gauze tape
  • Compress bandage (large)
  • Triangular bandage
  • Can be used to make a temporary sling or for tying anatomical splints
  • Cotton balls & Q-Tips
  • Gauze pads (20 - 30)
  • Get lots of these in different sizes: you may need more than you expect
  • Gauze wraps
  • Hot/Cold pack
  • KY Jelly (which is water soluble unlike vaseline)
  • Medical tape
  • You're going to need to hold that bandage in place
  • Pins (safety & bed pins)
  • Providine iodine
  • Some people are allergic to iodine, so you may also want to get an alternative
  • Scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Towelettes or wipes

General items

  • Prescription medications
  • If anyone is taking prescription medications its good to have extra on hand
  • Analgesics, anti-inflammatory & antipyretics (acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen)
  • Infant acetaminophen
  • Antacid tablets
  • Antihistamine
  • Burn ointment
  • Calamine lotion
  • Activated charcoal
  • Helps absorb some poisons. In an emergency, use only if advised by the Poison Control Center
  • Syrup of Ipecac
  • An emetic, it causes the victim to throw up dangerous poisons. In an emergency, use only if advised by the Poison Control Center
  • Contact (saline) lens solution
  • Can be used to rinse dust or dirt out of eyes
  • Cough drops
  • Diaper rash lotion
  • Dimatap or other decongestant
  • Fingernail scissors
  • Nasal aspirator
  • Rehydration powder / diarrhea medication
  • Teething ointment
  • Thermometer
  • Tissues

Camping

  • Emergency blanket (space blanket)
  • Compact and light, it can keep you warm if necessary
  • Eye dressing
  • Foot powder
  • Insect repellent
  • Lip balm
  • Magnifying glass
  • Matches/Lighter
  • Mirror
  • Needle & thread
  • Razor blades
  • Safety gloves
  • Salt tablets
  • Sea sickness pills or wristbands
  • Small knife or multi-tool
  • Sterilized water
  • Sunscreen (not for babies under six months)

  • Items marked with a pink asterisk are optional
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