by Eric Buckingham

Created on: November 16, 2007

An emergency can occur to any family member it can be minor or major. Not only your children but you yourself may be cut, burned, or suffer other injuries. Keeping these basic first aid supplies on hand you are better prepared to help your loved ones when they are injured.

Keep in mind that many injuries are not a matter of life or death nor will they require immediate medical attention. Knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a huge difference. Consider taking a first aid class, but simply having the following things can help you stop bleeding, prevent infection and assist in decontamination.

FIRST AID KIT
Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection, Burn ointment to prevent infection, Adhesive bandages in all different sizes,Sterile dressings to stop bleeding, Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminate, Two pairs of Latex, or other sterile gloves, thermometer, Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose, Ice pack, Prescription medications you take every day, nonstick Sterile Pads, anti-itch medications, like hydrocortisone cream, An antihistamine, like Benadryl, and Pain and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen and ibruprofen .

It may also be benfital to have these items on hand as well CPR Mask, Tweezers, Scissors, Ready to eat foods, Water, Battery-operated radio and extra batteries, Flashlight, and a blanket. Now that we know which supplies to have on hand lets look at some ways to treat injuries that can occur in and around the home

BURNS
There are three different levels of burns first degree which only affects the outer most layer of skin. These burns are responsible for minor pain, swelling, and redness. Second degree burns will affect the inner and outer most layer of skin these burns will have the redness, be swollen, red and have blisters. A third degree burn will extend deeper into tissues. They cause blackened or white, charred skin that may be numb.

Before giving first aid, look extensively over the burned area and determine the severity of the burn. Then treat the entire burn accordingly. If in doubt, treat it as a severe burn .If the skin is unbroken, run cool water over the area of the burn or soak it in a cool water bath for at least five minutes.

After soaking, cover the burn with a dry, sterile bandage. Over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and swelling. Make sure to follow dosing instructions Once the skin has cooled, moisturizing lotion also can help. Minor burns will usually heal without further

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