Sniffle Solutions

Are You Prepared for an Emergency?

By Lisa Levine-Bernstein

When a child has a mishap at school, I have an office full of remedies at the ready. But what if she injures herself at home -- are you prepared for an emergency? I’m always surprised by the number of parents who keep a hodgepodge of medical supplies in a drawer. It’s critical that you build a first-aid kit with the essentials; accidents happen unexpectedly, and you want to be well-equipped.

I recommend making two separate kits: one for your home and one for your car. You can buy them at your drugstore, or simply use a sturdy, easy-to-open container, like a tackle box.

Once you have one, fill it with the following first-aid basics and check on it yearly to replace any expired medications or missing items.

Thermometer and Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
I advise opting for a digital oral thermometer instead of the glass kind. Those can break, exposing your child to hazardous mercury fumes. If your child is running a fever, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help lower it. Avoid aspirin; giving a feverish child aspirin has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, a rare but dangerous condition.

Bandages, Gauze Pads, and Medical Tape
Have an assortment of sizes available. One warning: If you’re applying an elastic bandage to a twisted ankle or elbow, wait for the area to finish swelling. Wrapping it too soon can actually inhibit circulation.

Antibacterial Ointment
To clean a wound, wash it thoroughly with soap and water. Then apply this ointment to prevent infection and keep the area moist, which speeds healing.

Tweezers and an Antiseptic
Tweezers can remove splinters and ticks. (Grab the insect by its mouthparts, or as close to the skin as possible, and pull with a gentle, steady motion.) Sterilize the tweezers with an antiseptic (like rubbing alcohol) before and after each use.

Hydrocortisone Cream
This anti-itch remedy can soothe your little one’s bug bites or rash.

Emergency Contact Info and Medical History
Keep a piece of paper or index card with each family member’s medications, conditions and emergency contact numbers in case you do have to rush to the hospital.

Non-latex Gloves
If you happen to encounter someone who needs your assistance, these gloves can protect you from any potential blood-borne diseases.

Mylar Blanket
Leave this inexpensive blanket in your car. Although it’s thin, it will keep you warm if you’re stranded roadside.

What’s one essential you make sure to keep in your family’s first-aid kit? Join the discussion. 

Check out my Q&A from last week to learn how to ease your child’s stuffy nose.

Photo: @iStockphoto.com/chuckcollier