Are you currently enrolled in the online family nurse practitioner degree program through the University of Cincinnati? If so, why not use your medical knowledge as a money saving tip. We all know how important it is to have a first aid kit handy in your home, but purchasing those ready-made kits is far from cheap. Instead you can make your own first-aid kit at home with all the essentials for a fraction of the cost.
It’s worth noting that the American Red Cross Association recommends that you have a first aid kit in your home and car, so you may want to make one for your vehicle as well. So what should be included in a basic first aid kit for your home? Here’s a handy list of items that you’ll want to pick up.
A Variety of Bandages
Obviously, it’s easy to just pick up a box of bandages, but what people sometimes don’t realize is that you should have a variety of sizes as well as compress dressings, gauze, and cloth tape. Depending on the type of injury you are dealing with, the dressing and cloth tape may be necessary. If you can get the dressing in a roll it will allow you to cut it to size, making it versatile. Be sure to grab a pair of scissors to use with the rolled dressing/bandages.
Antibiotic Ointment
Here’s another must-have in any home first-aid kit. Look for items such as an antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone ointment, and antiseptic wipes to quickly disinfect the area. If you have small children, you may also want to pick up the child-safe ointments. In order to properly clean an area and not spread germs you will also need a pair of non-latex gloves. It’s always wise to grab a few pairs to throw in the kit.
Miscellaneous Items
There are a number of miscellaneous items to remember. These include such things as an oral thermometer (it doesn’t have to be fancy), a cold compress, Diphenhydramine (an oral antihistamine such as Benadryl), tweezers, a breathing barrier, and two packets of aspirin.
Storing Your First Aid Kit
In order to properly store all the items in one spot you will need to purchase some sort of container or bag. Make sure there is plenty of space in it, and if possible something that has compartments so you can organize the contents. One tip is to use a fishing tackle box. If you have small children you will want to store it out of their reach, but at the same time all adults must be aware of where it is when they need it.
Being Prepared
Creating your own money-saving first aid kit for your home is a great way to put to use the skills and knowledge you are learning in your family nurse practitioner program. It will also ensure you’re ready in case of emergency. It’s a good idea to regularly check the contents in the kit to ensure it stays stocked and that you don’t run out of any items.
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