First Aid

What Do You Need In A Sports First Aid Kit

Different sports are practiced by children and adults alike, some practice it for fun while others professionally but all encounter injuries at some point or the other. Children are more prone than adults to small injuries for which parents should always be prepared with a special sports first aid kit.

The Essentials In Your Sports First Aid Kit

First aid kits are meant for exactly what they suggest – first aid, therefore, you need to be able to deal with almost anything in its primary stage after which you can call for assistance should the need be. Here are what you must have in your sports first aid kit: gauze bandages of all sizes as you never know what kind of cuts they occur in a game, cold packs, analgesic cream and spray, rubbing alcohol for cleaning and disinfecting the wound before applying a band aid and pain killers.

Additional disinfectant wipes would be great in case you have to assist someone injured on the field away from the house and running water; also, gloves, scissors and tweezers should be included in your sports first aid kit.

Make The Sports First Aid Kit Available

It is very important that all concerned parties know where the sports first aid kit is located in case of need; also if the game will take place away from the house make sure the kit is available close to the location for example, in the car or on one of the family members who are watching the game. Should your child go by himself/herself for the game ensure that he/she is carrying it in their backpack in case of emergency.

Helpful Tip

Educate your family the importance of taking care adequately of your health at all times especially if your kids are performing a professional or dangerous game such as skiing, ice skating, football and so on.

Also let your family know where the emergency kits are in the house, the medical condition of each one of you (should you have any special condition) and what should be done in case there is an emergency. You may be able to save a life by simply making everyone aware of the situation around.

Sports is fun and most of the times the injuries occurred during games are minor but, those minor injuries can easily turn into major one should you not disinfect and clean in time. Keep sports first aid kit handy when you have children or other adults involved in sports in the house.

A First Aid Class and People

When taking a first aid class, people tend to think it’s soley for the purpose of learning tips and techniques to dealing with minor issues such as small bumps or bruises, or scrapes when a kid falls off their skateboard. In reality, a first aid class offers much more than meets the eye.

What to Expect From a First Aid Class

To being with, the basics will be taught. You’ll learn the right methods to use when treating a scrape or cut on an adult, and different methods to use when treating these ailments on a child that may be more timid or scared than an adult. The first aid class will also introduce the types of medication or sterilizing creams to be used on minor scrapes and cuts.

But first aid classes go above and beyond your typical first aid thoughts. These classes tend to teach CPR and the practices used that go into it, enabling the course taker to learn life saving techniques that are priceless to many who find themselves in need of the treatment.

Because there are different kinds of first aid classes that specialize in certain specifics of first aid, there are many different things to learn depending on the course taken. A particular course may teach you how to perform help for someone who has had a cardiac arrest, and yet another course might focus on teaching toddler first aid.

When to Take the Classes

It’s never too early or too late to take first aid classes. Many people think that because they are older and have never had first aid or CPR training, that it’s too late to do anything about it. The reality is that it’s never too late to learn these skills. Whether we are 15 years old, or seventy years old we all have something to contribute when someone else is in need of first aid. But in order to contribute, we need to have the skills to do it.

The same method can be said for being too young. Even a 5 year old child can offer some good out of their first aid knowledge at one time or another. It’s also a good way for a child to learn from first aid classes how to be careful themselves, and stay away from dangerous situations. A good way to ensure everyone in a family is properly trained in CPR and first aid is to take a course together!

Why It Is Important To Learn CPR And First Aid

The letters CPR stand for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and it describes the process of bringing oxygen back into the body’s circulatory system. The human brain can only survive for three or four minutes without oxygen before suffering damage. Millions of Americans are saved from brain damage or death each year because someone knew how to administer CPR at a time when a victim needed it. CPR and first aid are not difficult techniques to learn, but the most effective teaching comes from a course where students are allowed to practice the techniques on mannequins to safely ensure that you are learning correctly. The Red Cross and the American Heart Association both offer information on where to find CPR and first aid classes.

The ABC’s Of CPR And First Aid

By following the ABC’s when encountering a victim who is unconscious, you can determine what type of help is needed. “A” stands for airway, and it involves ensuring that the victim is in a position so that the airway is open. By tilting the victim’s head back and pulling the chin forward, you can open the airway. “B” stands for breathing. You can determine if the victim is breathing by watching for movement in the chest. If you do not detect any movement, immediately begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. The “C” is for circulation. If you cannot find a heartbeat on your victim, you need to begin chest compressions immediately as well. These compressions can help send some blood to the vital organs which is essential for them to continue functioning.

Before beginning an “ABC” assessment, verify that your victim is indeed unconscious. Gently shake the person’s shoulder and shout at them to see if you get a response. If you do not, it is important to call 9-1-1, or have another person on the scene call before beginning any CPR or first aid on the victim. It is vital to get professional emergency help to the scene as quickly as possible. You can then begin to administer CPR and any other first aid techniques that appear necessary. If more than one person is at the scene, one can perform chest compressions while the other does mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. The quick thinking and action that you can provide to a victim by performing CPR and first aid may very well save someone’s life. If you are not currently certified in CPR and first aid training, contact the Red Cross or the American Heart Association today to find a class in your community. The knowledge you gain today may very well save a life tomorrow.

Information You Need to Know about First Aid CPR Training

Training that is specific to someone’s health is very important to most people. In particular, first aid CPR training is probably one of the most well known and important kinds of training someone can get in many people’s eyes. Because of this, there are many different businesses and centers in communities everywhere that have taken a stand by offering first aid CPR training.

What is First Aid CPR Training?

When we think of CPR, we think of mouth to mouth resuscitation which is something that saves the lives of numerous people on a daily basis. Not only does this kind of medical procedure help save the lives of our loved ones, but people who are experienced in the practice have the opportunity to save the lives of a stranger at any given time, and at any given place.

First aid CPR training is just as it sounds, it’s designed to help people understand the methods and practices to use when attempting to save the life of someone whether we know them or not. It’s not something that is limited to adults, and just because it’s usually a mouth to mouth practice, doesn’t mean there is anything dirty or wrong about it.

Know When you Need It

Just because you don’t have a swimming pool at home or you don’t plan to take any family vacations that seem to offer possibilities for needing to know CPR doesn’t mean things can’t arise that require you to know how to perform the CPR. There have been many stories told of children falling into a washing machine and drowning or even small children drowning in the pet’s water bowl. For reasons like these, first aid CPR training is essential if you are a parent.

Coaching little league or children’s basketball, or any sport for that matter is another reason to get first aid CPR training. While you can take the chance that someone else at the event you participate in knows CPR, why shouldn’t you know it yourself and limit the possibilities of someone getting seriously hurt or even dying.

In the end, first aid CPR training is something that can and will benefit anyone who takes the courses, and there is not one person alive that wouldn’t offer a benefit to someone else in need of the CPR if the issue ever arose. Being knowledgeable in first aid especially when it can save someone’s life is an important part of playing a big role in your community.

How To Stock Your Home First Aid Kit

Everyone should have a well-stocked first aid kit handy for the home as well as the car. You never know when you will need it, and it is always better to be prepared for an emergency. First aid kits should also be checked once or twice a year to ensure that the supplies have not expired, and refill any items that have been used. There are ready-made kits available at many retailers, but you can also stock your own to ensure that the products you have on hand are good quality items. A plastic shoebox with a snap-top lid can make an effective first aid kit, and fits nicely on a shelf or under a seat in your car. You can also fill a smaller box with some bare essentials to create a first aid kit for the park or soccer games. No matter where you are, it is always a good idea to have some band-aids and a few other supplies available.

The Necessities

Bandages are usually the first basic that people think of when they begin stocking a first aid kit. Bandages of assorted shapes and sizes are a good idea, so you are prepared for a variety of cuts and scrapes. Butterfly bandages should be included to hold cuts closed, and gauze pads can come in handy to help stop bleeding. Include a roll of hypoallergenic adhesive tape to help hold your gauze pads in place. A roller bandage is also a good choice in your first aid kit, to give support to a sore ankle or other joint. Other supplies that you will need to have on hand to treat cuts and abrasions will be antibiotic ointment and latex gloves. A bottle of water and antiseptic towelettes are a smart addition for cleaning and rinsing wounds out before dressing them.

There are a number of medications that your first aid kit should include. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen and allergy medication are both good choices. You can add eye drops, and stomach medications for indigestion and antidiarrheals to round out your medicine inventory. Syrup of Ipecac is also important to have on hand, but never administer it without checking with your poison control center first. Make sure before taking any medication from your first aid kit that the medicine is not expired and check dosage information every time you use it – especially when administering medicines to children.

Last but definitely not least, a first aid manual should be a top priority for your first aid kits, along with emergency numbers for your doctor, pharmacy and poison control. A first aid kit filled with supplies is only useful if the owner knows how to use the items! Don’t wait until an emergency to wish you had a first aid kit on hand; stock it now and rest assured that you will be prepared if an urgent situation comes along.

Time for a First Aid Kit Refill

If the last time you checked your first aid kit was more than a month ago, it may be time to open it up and check to see if it is still fully stocked. If you bought a first aid kit from a reputable supplier, they should also sell a first aid kit refill for it.

This is especially important if you have several people living in the house where a band-aid or burn cream can disappear without you knowing about it. Since the kits are designed to handle small emergencies, their supply level usually does not rival the stock room at the drug store. It will not long before a first aid kit refill is needed.

Some of the most often used first aid products are band aids, antiseptic wipes, ice pack, burn cream, sterile bandages, nonstick pads, tape, sting relief wipes, fingertip and knuckle bandages. Your kit may also contain hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, scissors and an extra roll of adhesive tape. These should also be part of the first aid kit refill.

Don’t Get Caught With Empty Case

Probably the best way to insure you have the right supplies when you need them is to buy a first aid kit refill at the time you buy the kit. Then store the first aid kit refill in a place where no one can get to it without your knowledge. Then when you need something from the first aid kit and it’s gone, you can pull out the spare first aid kit refill and have what you need.

The same would hold true if you a first aid kit in your car. Keep track of the supply level and use your first aid kit refill to keep it fully stocked. There is nothing worse than heading to an accident and finding your first aid kit is empty.

Emergency items you may have in an emergency kit at work could include CPR mask, antiseptic towelettes, alcohol pads, burn cream, eye pads and wash, sling, cold pack, tweezers, scissors, antibiotic triple ointment, fingertip and knuckle bandages, and ibuprofen. If you would have this type of first aid kit refill, you would be covered for just about any emergency.

Larger industrial style kits may include splints in case of a broken bone and could include the type used for fingers, arms or legs. One advantage of an industrial setting is the kits are usually properly maintained due to Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations.

First Aid Can Save Lives

Administering first aid to a victim who is injured or ill can be the first step to saving that person’s life. It is important for everyone to have some basic first aid knowledge, since you never know when you might need to use it. The initial minutes after an injury or accident are often the most crucial. Since it can take some time for emergency services to reach a victim, those on the scene first can begin treatment while waiting for the professionals to arrive. Whether there is a need for CPR, shock treatment or immobilization of a potentially broken limb, the help that you can offer in the minutes directly following an accident can have a huge impact on a victim’s recovery.

First Aid Means Being Prepared

It is wise to always be prepared. First aid courses can train you to handle many emergencies that you could possible encounter. A first aid manual can be an invaluable resource when you are faced with a stressful situation and need some additional guidance. And first aid kits kept in your home and car can provide the tools and medications necessary for treating many injuries and illnesses on the spot. It doesn’t take that much time and money to prepare yourself for the bad situations that can arise, and once you have done your homework you can rest in the assurance that you will be able to handle any emergency that might come your way.

A first aid kit can be purchased as a complete set, or you can assemble one yourself with a waterproof box and a few essentials. A selection of bandages, antibiotic ointments and antiseptic towelettes can be used for most cuts and abrasions. Pain relievers, hot/cold compresses and roller bandages can be used for injuries to joints and muscle pain.

Thermometers, tweezers and first aid scissors are handy tools for a multitude of purposes. And for those weak stomachs, antidiarrheals, antacids and motion sickness medications are a must. Latex gloves, towels and ice packs are also good items to keep in stock, as are first aid remedies for outdoor ailments such as insect stings and sunburn. Keep a first aid kit wherever your family tends to spend a significant amount of time: at home, in the car and with your camping supplies. You can even purchase the most compact first aid kit to keep with your bicycle or in your briefcase.

While you may never need to use the first aid training you receive or the first aid supplies that you pack, the knowledge that you are prepared should an emergency arise can give you tremendous piece of mind – and might even help you save a life.

Create Mini First Aid Kits When Necessary

First aid kits are meant to assist you in time of need such as when you accidentally cut your finger or fall and bruise your knee but also in major instances such as, open wounds and heart attacks. How can you always be prepared; let us find out together how you can carry a mini first aid kit always on you.

The Essentials In First Aid

Knowledge is the essential in first aid and usually with only that you can do pretty well most times, therefore, try and keep yourself informed in order to know what you are doing when. A mini first aid kit will be very helpful for those who know what to do with the items in the kit and also what to do in order to improvise for what you don’t have in the kit.

A mini first aid kit can only contain a few things and they should be as follows: rubbing alcohol pads so you can sterilize any wound, analgesic pills if you cannot fit a cream or spray, pain killers and adhesive bandages. Now, if you only have a tiny bag you can forget everything else and just carry the bandages and some sanitary wipes, they will take care of a wound until help arrives.

There are many mini first aid kits available in the department and drug stores as well and they will supply you with tiny packages of analgesic ointment, which cleans, disinfects and subsides the pain at the same time. However, sometimes we have to pick and choose even from the smallest first aid kit for lack of space, those are the times when you must decide what you need most by considering the activity you are about to have.

Helpful Tips

If you are not able to carry even a mini first aid kit try and pick the items that you will need most from it for example, if you are going for the movies you may need only couple of bandages and some rubbing alcohol strips in case you get a cut or bruise.

However, if you have a medical condition you must always carry the medication you may require in case of emergency and also let the person who you will be accompanying you know about your condition and what he/she must do in case of emergency.

A first aid kit however small should be in all the places you spend considerable amounts of time such as your bathroom at home or anywhere lese you find it is okay, your car if you drive and your office as well. All these places must have clearly marked any special medications or requirements in case of emergency. A mini first aid kit may just be enough at times to save a life and then you will be glad you took the time to put it together and carry it along.

Guide To Red Cross First Aid Training

The Red Cross is a major medical association, which conducts many first aid courses for professionals and non-professionals alike. You can get a Red Cross first aid training certification during this summer vacation and be a helpful hand in need.

Enrolling For A First Aid Course

Red Cross first aid training courses can be in many different fields such as CPR, Industrial Accidents first aid training and so on. Depending on what your requirements are you can find a course with the Red Cross. Today, many jobs require you have a basic first aid training to be hired such as, crew members and flight attendants who need to have a first aid certification in order to get on board and that is because they all need to be able to provide a helping hand in case of any emergency.

Red Cross first aid training courses can take couple of weeks or a few months depending on the course you choose however, they are recognized worldwide and are extremely intense. You can also apply for an online Red Cross first aid training course should you not have the time to spend in traditional class courses.

Online courses are recognized as well but they usually will take longer than the traditional ones as you will only access them when you have time; some the exams will have to be conducted in local hospitals or clinics close to you but not online. Online courses are as competitive as the traditional ones just that you will complete them from the comfort of your home.

Online Red Cross first aid training have special forums which you will be able to access whenever you choose, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; you will also be able to chat with fellow students and professors as well when they are available.

Helpful Tip

Red Cross first aid training is highly recommended to everyone who wants to acquire the knowledge and expertise of being able to assist with saving a life in the time of need. First aid alone has saved millions of people as sometimes a few minutes counts before you can get professional help.

Many attend first aid training just because they have an ailing family member and they want to be prepared in case of an emergency. Heart attack alone can kill or complete matters ten folds if first aid if not being given in the first couple of minutes of the stroke or is the first aid id being given wrong.

Learn to save lives today and enroll in a Red Cross first aid training course. You will be able to understand your body better and those of others as well thus, leading a better richer life in the process.

First Aid Information Should Be Available To Everyone

Whether it is at your home, in your car or workplace first aid information should be readily available to everyone in case of an emergency. All types of medical emergencies can pop up from a small cut on a finger to a person suffering a massive heart attack and appropriate first aid information needs to be handy.

The American Red Cross is an exceptional source for first aid information and has information on just about every emergency contingency. Accurate, updated information could mean the difference between life and death and in some cases; you may have to take care of yourself.

At home, you should be aware of the first aid information for every chemical in your home. Not necessarily memorizing every item in your home, but knowing where to find the information can save a lot of grief in case of an emergency. Material Safety Data Sheets are available for every dangerous products sold in the United States.

These information sheets contain information on the manufacturer, including an emergency phone number to call in case all efforts to deal with this particular chemical fails as well as the actual contents. You will need the content information if you have to contact the poison control center. They also will tell you what to do in case of exposure or ingestion, which is very valuable first aid information in case of exposure. To obtain a material safety data sheet on any potentially poisonous or otherwise dangerous product, contact the manufacturer or the store at which it was bought.

Contact Information Is Also Important

Some important first aid information that many people overlook is who to contact in case of emergency. The phone number of your family physician should be posted in a conspicuous place along with a list of any and all prescriptions you are taking, as well as the dosage. This could prove to be valuable first aid information as some drugs used in emergencies may not be compatible with your prescriptions. Additionally, make sure you list any allergies you may have to certain drugs. This information could be lifesaving.

Unless your area has emergency 9-1-1 calling, you should also have the police, fire and ambulance phone numbers listed near the doctor’s information. It’s also a good idea to have the name and number of a relative or close neighbor who can be counted on take care of smaller children in the event of an emergency and you have to leave for the hospital.