A well-stocked first aid kit is an essential item for schools to have on hand to address minor injuries and provide immediate care until professional medical help arrives. Here’s a list of items that you should consider keeping in a first-aid kit for school:
- Adhesive bandages (various sizes): These are used for covering small cuts, scrapes, and blisters.
- Sterile gauze pads and adhesive tape: These are useful for covering and dressing larger wounds.
- Antiseptic wipes or solution: To clean wounds and prevent infection.
- Disposable gloves: To protect the person providing first aid and the injured individual from contamination.
- Tweezers: For removing splinters or foreign objects from wounds.
PC: Healthgrades
- Scissors: For cutting tape, gauze, or clothing if necessary.
- Thermometer: To check for fever or signs of illness.
- Cotton balls and swabs: For applying antiseptic or cleaning wounds.
- Instant cold packs: To reduce swelling and soothe minor injuries.
- Disposable face masks: In case of contagious illnesses, to prevent the spread of germs.
- Pain relievers: Age-appropriate pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if allowed by school policy and with parental consent.
- Allergy medication: Such as antihistamines for mild allergic reactions.
- First aid manual or instructions: For guidance on how to administer first aid properly.
- Emergency contact numbers: A list of important phone numbers, including parents/guardians, local emergency services, and the school nurse.
PC: Medpac
- Tweezers: For removing splinters or small objects from the skin.
- First aid scissors: For cutting tape, clothing, or gauze.
- CPR face shield or barrier mask: For performing CPR safely.
- EpiPen (if applicable): If any students or staff members have known severe allergies.
- Burn gel or burn dressings: To treat minor burns.
- Eyewash or saline solution: For flushing the eyes in case of foreign body contamination.
Remember to periodically check and replenish the contents of the first aid kit to ensure that all items are in good condition and within their expiration dates. Additionally, it’s essential to have designated personnel trained in first aid, such as school nurses or staff members, who can administer aid when needed.
