A first aid kit consists of medical supplies used in case of an injury or illness. In serious cases, the kit will provide temporary relief as you seek out professional help. In minor cases, it will provide a quick, comforting fix. With your loved ones, make a list of the potential hazards in your home. Use that and the following list to build a kit that'll keep you calm and prepared in various scenarios.

What Are Essential Items for Your First Aid Kit?

1. Antiseptic

Whether you get a small papercut or a gash on your knee, all wounds come with the risk of infection. Infection results from germs entering and multiplying in the wound, slowing the healing process, and potentially causing tissue damage.

Applying antiseptic wipes or hydrogen peroxide to the affected area is a fast and convenient way to kill germs and speed up healing. Rubbing alcohol is also effective as an antiseptic, but be warned— it causes more of a sting.

2. Gauze

While you might be tempted to clean a wound with a paper towel or tissue, both will stick to the area, causing irritation and/or infection. Too much compression with these products is dangerous.

Instead, opt for gauze: it's a thin, loosely woven cotton material that you can purchase in 4x4 pads or a roll. It won't stick to a wound but it will still protect it from the elements and prevent excess blood through safe compression. For a more severe injury, hold gauze to the affected area and head to the hospital.

3. Bandages

Contrary to popular belief, letting a wound breathe doesn't speed up the healing process. Research shows that doing so will dry out a wound, increasing cell death.

Bandages can be applied to a wound to maintain a moist environment that encourages blood vessel regeneration. Purchase different shapes and sizes to cover a range of minor cuts.

4. Nitrile Gloves

The average person's hands carry more than 3000 different bacteria. So, if you're helping a loved one get something out of their eye or dressing your own wound, nitrile gloves ensure you don't contribute to the problem.

Also, gloves keep you from coming into contact with someone else's' blood or other body fluids. Bloodborne pathogens like viruses and bacteria can transfer diseases between people. Nitrile gloves are preferable to latex ones as they have higher puncture and chemical resistance.

Purchase the essential medical supplies for your first aid kit at Gates Pharmacy in Elyria, OH. For nearly 30 years, this local pharmacy has provided knowledgeable and compassionate care to the community. In addition to medical supplies, they provide prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and various everyday items. Call (440) 329-7300 to consult a pharmacist. Go online for more about their services.