A well-stocked first-aid kit can help you respond effectively to common injuries and emergencies. Lea Mathison, BSN, RN, the emergency department trauma coordinator at MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center, breaks down best practices and essentials for your first-aid kit.

A few basics to be aware of when creating your first-aid kit include:

Essentials for your first-aid kit You can buy first-aid kits at many drug stores or can create your own. You may want to create your kit based on your activities and needs.

Things you need to look for in a first-aid kit:

Medications to have on hand:

Aspirin is something you can consider having in a first-aid kit for the purpose of someone having chest pain that is unexplainable. This can be a lifesaving intervention for someone who may be having a heart attack. If this happens, call 911 and follow directions from the dispatcher. Have the person or you chew the adult aspirin. However, do not take aspirin if you are allergic to aspirin, have bleeding problems, take blood thinners, or advised by your provider not to do so. Never give children aspirin.

Give your kit a checkup

Check your first-aid kits regularly to be sure the flashlight batteries work and to replace supplies that have expired or been used up. Utilize the American Red Cross for a first-aid course or check your nearest MercyOne for future classes to become more familiar.

© MercyOne. All Rights Reserved.