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No one prays for accidents or emergency situations, but sometimes life happens and we need to find a way to deal with every situation we find ourselves in, hence the precautions we take to secure our lives and property which are the most prized possessions. A first aid box is a usually a medium sized box containing simple equipment and drugs to take care of patients before they receive proper medical attention. Most homes and offices usually have first aid boxes to deal with minor illnesses and injuries that occur suddenly. What are the necessary things to have in a first aid box? Below are some things we consider to be important in a first aid box.

  • Mild pain relievers: In most cases of minor injury, the victim usually suffers from pain and this can be alleviated through the use of mild pain relieving drugs such as paracetamol. Its major advantage is that it is very common and does not need a prescription before being taken. Headaches and cramps can also be relieved by the use of pain relievers before seeking professional help.
  • Cotton wool and plasters: These are usually used to cover open wounds or stop bleeding as the case may be. A first aid box without cotton wool and plaster is not complete because they serve major purposes in situations where the victim has to be protected from losing blood or getting infected by the environment.
  • Antiseptics: Compounds like methylated spirit can be used as antiseptics when applied appropriately. They can help to keep away germs from the surface of the wound and disinfect it. Although they may not actually treat the wound, they will help it to heal better and faster. Antiseptics are necessary to prevent further contamination and infection.
  • Balms and ointments: In case someone falls or dislocates a joint, balms and ointments are usually beneficial to massage the joint back into place. However, they can only be useful if the case is not very serious and harmful. For example, there is no way you can massage a broken bone back into place as this will need immediate medical assistance and therapy.
  • Antacids: Anyone can suddenly develop stomach upset or irritation which may result from various conditions such as food poisoning, allergies or consumption of contaminated water. Diarrhea takes a little time to affect the entire body system and must be countered as soon as possible by taking salt and water solution or antacids as the case may be. Either way, keep antacids in your first aid box to fight stomach upsets.
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This article was first published on 29th September 2016 and updated on November 2nd, 2017 at 4:19 pm

jelifat

Opoola Jelifat is a young and passionate writer. She holds a B.Sc degree in Microbiology and enjoys reading, cooking and writing on real life issues. She is currently pursuing a Masters degree at the University of Ibadan. Contact her on opoolajelifat@gmail.com, and via Twitter and facebook by clicking the icons below.

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