First Aid/Appendix E: First Aid Kits

First Aid Kits thumb|The same kit at the left, packed into a single water-tight plastic bag. thumb|left|This first aid kit was packed for a trip to the tropics. Everyone should have a well-stocked first aid kit for in the car, at home, and other events. For first aid kits in the workplace, there will be legislation which specifies what must be present; this will depend on the size and type of the workplace and may vary depending on local, regional, or national regulations. Know where first aid kits are located, whether at home, at work, or at play. First aid kits should be clearly marked; in the workplace, there should be sufficient indication of the kit's location for those who are unfamiliar with its location to identify it. First aid kits must be kept well-stocked; supplies do expire, and must be replaced periodically. Consider creating a schedule for checking that the kit is stocked, and replacing any expired items as required. Quantities below are guidelines; determine what is required based on the kit's expected use. If possible use a bright-colored, watertight plastic container. Tool boxes are popular, or it may be worthwhile to purchase a kit made specifically for this purpose. Recommended Contents ItemHomeCarWildernessWorkplace (<5 workers)First Aid Requirements, R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 1101 is being used as an example; check the relevant legislation.Workplace (5-15 workers)Workplace (15-200 workers)Workplace (>200 workers)Nitrile Gloves (pairs)Using non-latex gloves is important, especially in workplace kits, since you are more likely to be giving treatment to someone who you don't know. Nitrile is always best.221025This is not required, but is recommended50100200CPR mask1111111Tape (roll)Transpore (3M) is great.11212483"x3" sterile gauze pads482041248964"x4" sterile gauze pads4820221020Trauma dressing (ABD pad)01222610Non-stick gauzeLook for Telfa; it is the most common variety.4820221020Roll 2" gauze125248Roll 4" gauze816Adhesive bandages204050122448100Antiseptic solutionDepending on your location, you may not be legally permitted to use this, except with family members. In that case, eliminate it from workplace kits.1111111This must be ethyl alcoholAntibiotic ointment1111111Triangular bandages244161224Safety pins10202010102020Paramedic Scissors1111111ItemHomeCarWildernessWorkplace (<5 workers)Workplace (5-15 workers)Workplace (15-200 workers)Workplace (>200 workers)Tweezers111111Instant hot & cold packs1 of each1 of each2 of each1 of each1 of each2 of eachFirst Aid guideFor workplaces, the legislation may require a certain guide. For example, many Canadian jurisdictions require St. John Ambulance guides.1111111Pen/pencil2222222Paper (or report forms)Workplaces should always use pre-made incident report forms. An example form is available. Workplaces are also required to keep these reports on file.22105102050SplintSam Splints are the most versatile and easy-to-use variety. Avoid using splints for specific body parts; the best can be resized to fit arms and legs. Unless you're stocking a kit for a sports team, you're unlikely to require finger splints.1221assorted sizesassorted sizesSplint paddingIf using Sam Splints, splint padding is not required.2442210Waste bagThis will be used to dispose of biohazardous waste, so it must be impermeable to fluids.111111a biohazard receptacle and/or a sharps containerPhone numbersThese should be on a durable card in legible writing or type. You should include EMS numbers as well as poison control, non-emergency ambulance, a cab company, and any emergency contacts (for home kits).1111111Thermometer11Sterile saline solution or bottle of water11eyewash stationWaterproof matches (box)111Whistle11Flashlight (and spare batteries)111Penknife11CertificationsProof of current certification for all on-duty first aiders is often required by law, but is good practice regardlessProof of currency for trained staffProof of currency for trained staffProof of currency for trained staffProof of currency for trained staffLog bookThis should log the date of the most recent inspection (and preferably a history of inspections; inspections are to be done at least quarterly) and the signature of the person who did the inspection1111ItemHomeCarWildernessWorkplace (<5 workers)Workplace (5-15 workers)Workplace (15-200 workers)Workplace (>200 workers) thumb|An example of a first aid kit for a specific purpose: road rash. thumb|A vintage first aid kit. 2