(WFSB) – As summer approaches, emergency rooms anticipate an uptick in pediatric injuries, underscoring the importance of being prepared at home.
The difference between a minor mishap and a major crisis could be something as simple but crucial as a well-stocked first aid kit.
Dr. Frank Moore, an Emergency Department physician at Middlesex Hospital with over 20 years of experience, emphasizes that a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for managing minor injuries effectively.
Dr. Moore emphasizes that a first aid kit is not just a collection of Band-Aids, wraps, and ointments.
It’s a box of peace of mind, a safety net when life throws the unexpected your way.
While kids are counting down to the start of summer vacation, Emergency Department Physician Dr. Moore can expect more kids to come through the emergency doors.
“Kids are kids, and that’s what they do. They play, have fun, and unfortunately sometimes get hurt,” Dr. Moore said.
Common summer injuries in children include fractures, sprains, sunburns, and insect bites.
“Broken arms, abrasions, cuts, scrapes, you name it,” Dr. Moore said. “Kids love to fall, and often they break a bone.”
While serious emergencies require a visit to the emergency room, Dr. Moore says most minor injuries can be treated at home. That’s where your well-stocked home first aid kit comes in, he says.
Dr. Moore thinks of a first aid kit as containing three categories of items: supplies, medication, and tools.
Your supply list should include:
- Latex-free sterile gloves
- Bandages and Band-Aids
- Gauze
- Medical tape
- Splints
- Ace wraps
- Ice packs
Under medications, Dr. Moore recommends pain relievers, Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Throw in Antihistamine and Benadryl to mitigate any sudden allergic reactions or rashes.
“It won’t hurt to put ointments, such as Neosporin cream and Hydrocortisone cream, in your kit. Both are useful for minor bug bites and scrapes,” said Dr. Moore.
Tweezers, splints, and scissors are some of the tools you need in your first aid kit.
“Tweezers are great for removing ticks. Use bug spray and wear long pants in the woods to prevent ticks but use tweezers to pull them off. Small splints are helpful. Have a tourniquet in your kit for significant hemorrhage.”
You can keep those medications and supplies in your kit for 3 to 5 years or until they expire. The bigger thing is knowing how to use and store everything in your kit.
“Read the manual to become familiar with how you use any of these items, and make sure you store your kit in a dry, safe, and cool space and keep it out of reach of kids,” said Moore.
The key takeaway is not to wait for an emergency to realize what you’re missing. Take the time now to stock up and be ready. Being prepared is not just a saying, it’s a proactive approach to safety.
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