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First-aid kits: Stock supplies that can save lives

Basic supplies

  • Adhesive tape.
  • Elastic wrap bandages.
  • Bandage strips and "butterfly" bandages in assorted sizes.
  • Super glue.
  • Rubber tourniquet.
  • 14 French catheter.
  • Nonstick sterile bandages and roller gauze in assorted sizes.
  • Eye shield or pad.
  • Large triangular bandage, which may be used as a sling.
  • Aluminum finger splint.
  • Instant cold packs.
  • Cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs.
  • Disposable nonlatex examination gloves, several pairs.
  • Duct tape.
  • Petroleum jelly or other lubricant.
  • Plastic bags, assorted sizes.
  • Safety pins in assorted sizes.
  • Scissors and tweezers.
  • Hand sanitizer.
  • Antibiotic ointment.
  • Antiseptic solution and towelettes.
  • Eyewash solution.
  • Thermometer.
  • Turkey baster or other bulb suction device for flushing wounds.
  • Sterile saline for irrigation, flushing.
  • Breathing barrier or surgical mask.
  • Syringe, medicine cup or spoon.
  • First-aid manual.
  • Hydrogen peroxide to disinfect.