First Aid Kit

It is important that the medical assistant acquire and maintain a first aid kit. A first aid kit contains basic supplies to provide emergency care to individuals who have been injured or become suddenly ill (Figure 1). It is recommended that a first aid kit be kept both at home and in the car.

First aid kits are available at most drug stores. It is also possible to make your own. Along with the items shown in Figure 1, the first aid kit should include the phone numbers of the local emergency medical service, the poison control center, and the police and fire departments. It is important to check the first aid kit regularly and replace supplies as needed.

Figure 1. First aid kit.