Tips for a Well-Stocked Medicine Cabinet - medical supplies - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Oct, 2000

When it comes to your health and the health of your family, it is critical always to be prepared for the unexpected. Quick responses to medical emergencies can save lives. The following tips for what a well-stocked medicine cabinet should contain can help you be better prepared in an emergency and can help get you on the read to recovery:

* Rectangular bandages (or Band-Aids) for simple cuts or abrasions

* Butterfly bandages and narrow adhesive strips to hold the edges of a cut together and allow it to heal

* Individually wrapped, sterile gauze pads to control bleeding or secretions and prevent contamination

* A roll of sterile gauze bandage and adhesive tape to hold a dressing or a splint in place

* A roll of absorbent cotton as padding for a splint

* Elastic ("Ace") bandage to help decrease bleeding or swelling, or lend support to joints or sprained muscles

* Scissors and tweezers for cutting bandages and removing splinters

* Cotton-tipped swabs

* Thermometer (oral, rectal, or for the ear)

* Petroleum jelly to use with a rectal thermometer

* Syrup of ipecac to induce vomiting if certain poisons are swallowed (Do not give without directions from a poison control center, emergency personnel, or doctor. In some cases, vomiting may be harmful. Keep on hand a one-ounce bottle for each child or grandchild under age five in the home.)

* Antiseptic ointment, spray, or towelettes for cleansing wounds

* Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection in minor wounds

* Anti-itch lotion or cream for relief of insect bites, itching, and minor skin irritations

* Pain reliever, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or ketoprofen, for relief of headaches, muscle aches, and joint pain

* Fever reducer, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin. (Note: aspirin is not recommended for children.)

* Antihistamine for allergic skin reactions and itching

* Decongestant and cough medicine

* Stomach remedies to prevent or treat indigestion, heartburn, or upset stomach

* Antidiarrheal

When taking medicines, always remember to check the proper dosage, especially for children. Read the label every time. Pay special attention to directions and warnings. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care professional.