First Aid Kit

A first aid kit may be needed at home, on a vacation, or while hiking or camping. The kit should be kept in a small portable box. The following items should be included:

Band-Aids
sterile gauze pads - both regular and nonstick type
adhesive tape (1/2-inch width)
Steri-Strips (for closing minor cuts)
small bar of soap
(Note: Hydrogen peroxide solution is unnecessary. It's no better than soap and water for cleaning wounds.)
alcohol wipes
elastic bandage (for sprained ankle)
triangular bandage (for sprained ankle or arm injury, or as a tourniquet)
needle and tweezers (for removing slivers or ticks)
razor blade (for poisonous snake bite)
small scissors
meat tenderizer powder for bee stings
insect repellent
sunscreen
adrenalin and syringe (optional, needed if a family member has a severe allergy to bee stings)
a list of allergies and medicines for each person in the family
extra supplies for hiking or camping:
- compass
- whistle
- flashlight
- matches
optional medicines for camping:
- antibiotic ointment
- hydrocortisone cream
- antihistamines such as Benadryl
- acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Written by B.D. Schmitt, MD, author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
Published by RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2006-02-24
Last reviewed: 2010-06-02

This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a health care professional.

Versions