We cannot stress enough the importance of having a well-stocked first aid kit to hand in your home and at work. This can help in cases ranging from minor cuts and grazes, to life-threatening situations. To help we have compiled a list of essential items your first aid kit should contain, and how to use them.
Suitable for: Small wounds that are bleeding normally. If using in the kitchen, they should be blue to ensure that should they fall off, they can easily be seen.
Use by: Wash the wound under a very cold running tap. Then pad the wound and surrounding area dry with clean kitchen towel or tissue. Apply the plaster over the top when the skin is dry, otherwise it won’t stick.
Suitable for: Wounds too large for plasters.
Use by: Place the pad over the wound. Wrap the bandage part of the dressing (which is attached) around the wound, sealing each side of the pad to stop anything from getting in the wound which could cause an infection. Secure it in place by tying a knot over the wound, which also applies pressure to stem the bleeding.
Suitable for: Dirt, grit, foreign objects in the eye and small wounds in this area. Use until able to get medical advice.
Use by: Carefully apply the pad over your eye and secure in place with tape or by tying a bandage around the head.
Suitable for: Elevating a limb.
Use by: Tie around the neck and wear like a sling for a wounded arm to stem the bleeding. It can also be worn to secure fractured or sprained hands, wrists, lower and upper arms, until medical advice can be sought.
Suitable for: A sprained or strained ankle or wrist.
Use by: First of all, apply ice for 15 minutes to reduce swelling. Then apply the bandage for compression and support. Wrap the bandage in a figure of eight around the ankle and the foot, leaving the heel exposed, or just wrap around the wrist. Secure with clips, tape or safety pins.
If your first aid kit is fully stocked but you could do with some help from our Aid Training team, go to our first aid training courses page here or contact us today.