When you think of home medical supplies, your mind probably goes to first aid kits. While first aid kits are definitely a good start, there are other medical supplies that you should have on hand in case of a medical emergency. Whether you’re dealing with a paper cut or serious injury, the proper medical supplies can mean the difference between a small injury or life and death.
Find out what medical supplies your home needs from your McAllen pharmacy.
Medical Supplies to Keep at Home
1. Thermometer
A medical thermometer is the best way to accurately measure your body temperature. This is important because your temperature can say a lot about your health.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, your body temperature is one of the four key vital signs your doctor examines. With more doctor appointments becoming virtual, a medical thermometer can allow you to take your temperature at home and help your doctor to make a more adequate diagnosis.
2. Emergency Blankets
Emergency blankets are a good tool to have on hand for someone with hypothermia or shock. A blanket can limit the amount of heat that a person loses and block out any wind that could make the cold worse.
If someone has just gone through trauma or shock, an emergency blanket can limit the effects a person experiences. There are many other ways you can use an emergency blanket in an emergency situation, like building a shelter, waterproofing other supplies, or sending out a signal of distress.
3. Medical-Grade Splint
Having a medical-grade splint on hand can help someone who’s suffered a broken or sprained bone until a medical professional can treat it. A splint is able to manage the pain of a broken bone and protect it from further injury.
Before using a medical-grade splint, familiarize yourself with how to properly use it or ask for assistance. Improper use can create further damage and pain to the injured person.
4. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit has the necessities that a person may need in the event of an emergency or common injury. Although the contents of first aid kits may vary, your first aid kit should contain:
- Bandages
- Antibiotics
- Burn gel
- Iodine pad
- CPR mask
- Instant cold pack
- Tourniquet
- Aspirin or Tylenol
- Antihistamines
- Antacids
Having a first aid kit with high-quality medical supplies can make all the difference. If you have a first aid kit at home already, check to make sure everything is up to date and add any additional supplies you may need.
First aid kits should also be tailored to fit any activities or special needs you have at home.
5. Eyewash
Injuries to the eyes can be quite common. Products like hairspray, dry shampoo, and liquid food items can cause eye injuries.
Once you’ve injured your eye, eyewash can help clean the ocular surface of any chemicals or debris. If a standard eyewash is hard to come by, contact lens solution is another great option for washing out your eye.
6. Humidifier
If your home has a low humidity level, there’s a greater chance of viruses and bacteria spreading. When you cough or sneeze, air droplets that contain germs and viruses get spread into the air. If the air is below a certain Relative Humidity (RH) level, the germs and bacteria can stay in the air for longer amounts of time.
A humidifier can also soothe your sinuses and protect your eyes, throat, and skin from dry air.
Get the Medical Supplies Your Home Needs With Help From Saenz Pharmacy
Having the right medical supplies in your home is an important step for the safety of yourself and loved ones. Gathering these medical supplies can seem overwhelming, but your McAllen pharmacists at Saenz Pharmacy are happy to help! We can answer any questions you may have and point you in the right direction for your home medical supply needs.