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As many parents know, kids are full of surprises. Some are delightful, but others can require quick action. From scraped knees on the playground to unexpected fevers in the middle of the night, having a well-stocked first-aid kit at home can make all the difference in providing your child care and comfort. Use the guide below to know all of the essential items every family should keep in their home first-aid kit.

Wound Care & Bandages

These are essential to keep in your first-aid kit to tend to small cuts and scrapes. And let’s face it – sometimes, band-aids just make everything better!  

Items to include:  

  • Adhesive bandages  
  • Sterile gauze pads and rolls
  • Adhesive cloth tape  

Antiseptics

Including these can help you stop infections before they start!  

Items to include: 

  • Antiseptic wipes  
  • Hydrocortisone  

Tools & Safety Gear

These are handy tools you may reach for to help you tend to any small scrapes or cuts.

Items to include: 

  • Tweezers
  • Non-latex disposable gloves  
  • Medical scissors  
  • Thermometer  
  • Instant cold packs  
  • Tourniquet

Pro Tip: When buying items like a tourniquet, ensure you purchase from a reliable supplier, like at a medical or tactical supply store  

Medications

Consider including everyday comfort essentials like:  

  • Pain relievers  
  • Allergy medications  
  • Any medications specific to your child  

Emergency Tools & Documentation

Include these in your first aid kit to assist in emergencies.  

  • Flashlights and extra batteries  
  • Emergency contact lists  
  • Medical info for all members in the household and copies of personal documents  

As parents, building a first-aid kit is more than a project; it’s preparing your family for anything. Feel confident knowing you’re ready to handle life’s little and not-so-little surprises!  

Kristina Pasma, BSN, RN, CPSI

Kristina Pasma is a trauma nurse liaison at Valley Children's Healthcare. She is also the Safe Kids Central California Coalition Coordinator and is passionate about educating children and their families about injury prevention at home and in the community.

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