The Top Medical Supplies Every Family Should Have

Medical emergencies can be very scary. However, if you are prepared for a sudden issue (if one should ever arise), being prepared can make it a little bit easier to handle.

Here are eight medical supplies that everyone should have around the house or office.

1. A Thermometer

Many of us have memories of our mothers or fathers feeling our heads and placing a thermometer in our mouths when we were feverish. It’s a good idea to invest in a digital, oral thermometer. These items usually work fast to give you a temperature read out, and they are simple to operate.

2. Wound Dressing Materials

Although professionals should definitely deal with major wounds, small injuries can often be handled at home with the right tools.It’s best to have bandages, clean gauze and medical tape for a range of scrapes and cuts.

3. Supplies for Wound Cleaning

Having dressings for a wound is practically useless unless you can first clean the area. Cleaning wounds with proper materials can help ensure that they don’t become infected.Hydrogen peroxide and alcohol wipes are good cleaning implements. Regular soap also works in a pinch.

4. Tweezers

When thorns, slivers and other objects get lodged underneath the skin, you need something to remove them. Tweezers are the perfect solution.

 5. Cold Packs

Lots of bruises, stings and sprains happen during the course of a year. As a result, it is a good idea to keep cold packs on hand—preferably those that cool down instantly. Apply these to one of the aforementioned injuries as soon as possible to reduce swelling and numb pain.

6. Over the Counter Medications

There are a variety of medications that you can buy at drug stores for many maladies. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen help relieve pain. Benadryl helps with allergies, while various cold medicines can ward off stuffy noses, coughs, and the sleeplessness that accompanies these problems.Of course, also keep prescription medications on hand.

7. Emergency Phone Numbers

One thing that isn’t a medicine or supply, but that is just as essential, is a list of emergency phone numbers. These should include your doctor, dentist, poison control and, of course, 911.

8. A Defibrillator

Although they may not be something that everyone considers an absolute home essential, it is smart to have heart defibrillators nearby for easy use if necessary. You can purchase these and other important health supplies online.

One of Mary’s favorite things to write about is health. For more information regarding heart defibrillators, please visit http://www.aedbrands.com/