Dou You Really Need a First Aid Kit?
A first aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment for use in giving first aid, particularly in an emergency. Most first aid kits contain bandages for controlling bleeding, personal protective equipment such as gloves and a barrier for performing rescue breathing and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), and sometimes instructions on how to perform first aid.
The American Red Cross recommends that households and workplaces be prepared for emergencies, which includes having a first aid kit. The first aid kit should be kept in a clearly marked bag or container in an easily accessible location. Vehicles should also have first aid kits, with the size and nature of the kit in proportion to the vehicle's range and potential distance from help. In addition, commercial aircraft carry a comprehensive first aid kit often including cardiac drugs.
The size and nature of the workplace dictates the size of its first aid kit. A workplace with heavy machinery will require different first aid supplies than an office setting. Security personnel may know the location of a first aid kit and be trained in first aid. There are usually legal regulations for the standard contents of a first aid kit required in different situations (for example, in the US those set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and in the UK set by the Health and Safety Executive).
The host of any large gathering of people is responsible for responding to any potential medical emergency. This includes making sure that a responsible person has ready access to a first aid kit.
Schools keep a first aid kit in the main office, whether or not there is a designated nurse. Coaches and other athletic trainers should keep a first aid kit handy during sporting events.
Soldiers carry a rudimentary first aid kit attached to their belt or harness. It often contains a field dressing and powders or ointments to stop bleeding or prevent infection. It is a military rule that you always use the injured person's first aid kit, not your own, to tend to their injuries. You may be needing yours later.
Paramedics, EMTs and other prehospital emergency providers such as combat lifesavers usually carry a comprehensive first aid kit. Often called a ""jump kit,"" this is a large duffel bag. Some of the supplies in a jump kit are beyond the skill of a typical first-aid provider, but common first-aid supplies are also carried.
Lifeguards must have quick access to a well-stocked first aid kit at their place of employment. In Canada, they are trained to the level of ""Standard First Aid,"" and can deal with many first aid situations from a stubbed toe to a victim with C-spine injuries and absent vital signs. Obviously, a lifeguard is no replacement for a paramedic or doctor, but if you require care and a lifeguard is nearby, remember that they have training and a duty to act. Generally speaking, you may not use their first aid kit; they will have to provide care, and write a report per the regulations in your geographical area and the workplace. (Source: Wikipedia.com)
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