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First Aid Kit Items: What to Pack in Your Kit

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Medically Reviewed by Urgent Care

Learn what items you should pack in a first aid kit.

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An accident can happen at any time, so it’s important to be prepared with a well-stocked first aid kit. You can purchase a pre-assembled kit, or you can make your own.

Packing a First Aid Kit | UPMC HealthBeat

First aid kits are great for treating basic injuries and illnesses—from cuts and scrapes to colds and coughs. If you’re making your own first aid kit, experts at UPMC recommend a few essentials, including:

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First Aid Kit Items

  • Adhesive bandages (in assorted sizes)
  • Adhesive cloth tape
  • Rolled gauze and non-stick gauze pads (in assorted sizes)
  • Elastic bandages
  • Antibiotic ointments
  • Antiseptic towelettes
  • Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin (don’t give aspirin to children)
  • Hydrocortisone cream
  • Burn cream
  • Scissors
  • Tweezers
  • Oral thermometer
  • Sterile eye wash
  • Plastic gloves
  • First aid instruction booklet
  • List of emergency numbers
  • Adult and children’s diphenhydramine antihistamine
  • Sting relief wipes
  • Cravat bandage/triangular sling
  • Sterile eye pad
  • Cold pack

When you need medical care that can’t be treated by a first aid kit, visit UPMC CareFinder for the locations of UPMC Urgent Care and Primary Care Walk-in centers,  Children’s Express Care, and emergency departments. At UPMCAnywhereCare, you can access health care providers 24/7 online.

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About Urgent Care

Sometimes you need care right away, with no time to wait for an appointment. That’s where UPMC Urgent Care comes in. We offer prompt treatment for illnesses and injuries seven days a week, with no appointment necessary. With locations throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland, you can find immediate care close to you – even if your doctor’s office is closed. Our services include treatment for minor injuries and illnesses, physicals, prescription filling, and flu shots and immunizations. Wait times for minor injuries and illnesses are usually shorter than the Emergency Department, and we accept most major insurance. Visit our website to find a location close to you.