How to Build Your Own First Aid Kit

Your first aid kit can be small or large. A small one could contain the minimum: band aids, ointment and antiseptic. A larger one could have everything from band aids to a blood pressure cuff. You should create one for your car as well as your home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• a container (can range in size from a plastic pencil box to a medium-size tool box)
• gauze
• band aids
• triple-antibiotic ointment
• mouthpiece
• small scissors
• glucose tablets
• blankets
• tylenol, ibuprofen, and baby aspirin
• large kotex pads
• 36 inch triangular piece of cloth (sling)
• cotton pads (make up pads are excellent)
• popsicle sticks
• 2 or 3 Ace bandages of varying sizes
• ice packs/heat packs
• blood pressure cuff an stethoscope
• thermometer
• a first guide or chart

1. Decide on the purpose. This will determine the size. A simple one will be easy to put together and can be kept in a large pencil box or kids lunch box.
2. Gather the supplies you'll need. Small kits usually include band aids, ointment, Tylenol and a package of gauze with tape. A larger kit would include glucose tabs (for diabetic shock), a blood pressure cuff and stethoscope, thermometer, band aids, gauze, Tylenol, cotton pads of various sizes, etc.
3. Include odd supplies such as: Kotex pads - very absorbent and excellent for large cuts and wounds. A sling to immobilize an arm or leg, if necessary. A blanket to prevent shock or to just wrap a person in. A small pair of sharp scissors in case you have to cut clothing or bandage material.
4. Check with the Red Cross or American Heart Association to see if they offer First Aid or CPR classes in your area. You will at least learn the basics. This is also a definite plus if you have kids in clubs or athletics.

Tips & Warnings

• Always stay calm. You're demeanor can calm an injured person. If you get scared, they can panic and injure themselves further.
• Always ask for help, if you are in a situation that you are unsure of call 9-1-1 immediately.
• Don't overstep your bounds. If you are there and a parent or professional healthcare practitioner arrives, let them attend to the injured party. Help if they need it, but otherwise, observe.
• You are NOT a doctor - Don't Act Like One.
• Always step back, if a medical professional arrives.