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Slideshow: 8 First Aid Essentials for
Car or Purse
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Tweezers
Tweezers are an
essential part of any first aid kit, particularly if you enjoy hiking or other
outdoor activities. The safest way to remove a splinter or a tick is with a
clean pair of tweezers. Disinfect the tweezers with alcohol well before and
after each use.
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Hydrocortisone Cream
For itchy bites,
consider carrying two small tubes of 1% hydrocortisone cream. This topical
steroid provides quick relief from itching and reduces inflammation.
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Hand Sanitizer and Gloves
If you or a friend gets
injured on the go, the last thing you want to do is tend the wound with dirty
hands. Alcohol-based gel or wipes can sanitize your hands when soap and water
aren't readily available. Sanitize before, slip on a pair of latex or non-latex
exam gloves, and sanitize again after treating the wound.
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Pain Relievers
No first aid kit would
be complete without medication to relieve pain and bring down a fever. Aspirin,
acetaminophen, and ibuprofen are popular over-the-counter pain relievers.
Aspirin should not be given to anyone under age 18 because of the danger of
Reye's syndrome.
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Gauze and Tape
For cuts and scrapes,
you can use gauze pads to apply pressure to small wounds until the bleeding
subsides. When used with tape, gauze can also serve as a bandage to cover and
protect wounds. Adhesive bandages of different sizes can also help protect minor
cuts and scrapes.
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Wipes or Solution for Cleaning a Wound
Before you bandage,
you'll want to clean scrapes or wounds. Antiseptic wipes or sprays are handy
for cleaning injuries when there's no clean water nearby. Sterile water or
saline, such as contact lens saline solution, is good to have for flushing out
eye injuries and can be used on other wounds. Available in small bottles, it
can also be easy to pack.
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Antibiotic Cream
An antibiotic cream or
ointment has several key uses. It can help protect minor wounds from infection.
It can keep the area moist, which may promote healing. And it can prevent the
wound from getting stuck to a bandage.
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Allergy Medications
Be ready to counter a
mild allergic reaction with antihistamines. People with serious allergies
should carry injectable epinephrine. It can save a life in the case of
anaphylaxis -- a severe and potentially deadly allergic reaction to triggers
such as insect stings or food.
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Creating Your Kit
Once you've gathered the
essentials for your mobile first aid kit, you'll need a way to keep them clean
and dry. You don't have to buy a fancy medical bag. A water resistant makeup
bag, tool kit, or fanny pack can work well.
This tool does not provide medical advice.
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