26 Apr First-Aid Kit Safety – Make the Best Use of Your First-Aid Kit

First-Aid Kit Safety – Make the Best Use of Your First-Aid Kit

First-aid kit safety begins with knowing what supplies are available, where the kit is located, and how those supplies should be used. First-aid kits contain more than adhesive bandages, and employees should be familiar with their contents before an injury or emergency occurs.

First-aid supplies are intended to provide immediate care for minor injuries or temporary assistance until trained medical personnel or emergency responders arrive. Employees should provide care only within the limits of their training.

Common First-Aid Kit Supplies

• Absorbent Gauze – Used to absorb blood or other fluids and, when sterile and intended for the purpose, cover wounds.
• Adhesive Bandages – Protect minor cuts and abrasions after the wound has been properly cleaned.
• Adhesive Tape – Secures dressings and bandages in place.
• Antiseptic Wipes – Used to clean minor cuts and abrasions according to the manufacturer’s directions.
• Bandage Compresses/Dressings – Applied to wounds to help control bleeding. Apply firm, direct pressure when appropriate.
• CPR Barrier – Provides a protective barrier when trained personnel perform rescue breathing or CPR.
• Disposable Gloves – Help protect first-aid providers from contact with blood and other potentially infectious materials. Nitrile or other suitable non-latex gloves may be used to reduce concerns associated with latex sensitivity.
• Elastic Bandages – May be used to support certain sprains or hold dressings or cold packs in place. Do not wrap so tightly that circulation is restricted.
• Eyewash – Small eyewash bottles may provide supplemental flushing when appropriate. They are not a substitute for required emergency eyewash equipment where employees may be exposed to corrosive materials.
• First-Aid Guide – Provides basic instructions for responding to common injuries and emergencies.
• Gauze Rolls – Used to secure dressings or provide additional wound coverage.
• Instant Cold Packs – May help reduce pain and swelling associated with certain sprains, strains, or bruises. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid direct prolonged contact with bare skin.
• Hand-Cleaning Wipes – May be used when handwashing facilities are not immediately available. Hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and water as soon as possible after providing first aid.
• Scissors – Used to cut tape, bandages, dressings, or clothing when necessary to provide first aid.
• Triangular Bandages – May be used as a sling or to help secure a dressing.
• Tweezers – May be used to remove superficial splinters or similar foreign material. Do not use tweezers to remove embedded objects or objects from the eye.
• Wound-Cleansing Wipes – Used to clean minor cuts and abrasions according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Medications

Some first-aid kits may contain over-the-counter medications. Employees should follow company policy and the product manufacturer’s instructions regarding their availability and use. Medications should not be dispensed or administered to another employee unless permitted under applicable company procedures.

Blood and Body Fluid Exposure

When providing first aid where blood or other potentially infectious materials may be present:

• Use disposable gloves and other appropriate protective barriers.
• Avoid direct contact with blood and body fluids.
• Use a CPR barrier when appropriate.
• Dispose of contaminated materials according to company procedures.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after providing care.
• Immediately report an occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious material.

Know the Limits of First Aid

A first-aid kit does not replace professional medical treatment. Serious bleeding, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, suspected fractures, severe burns, significant eye injuries, or other potentially serious conditions require prompt medical attention.

Never attempt a procedure for which you have not been trained.

Inspect and Restock First-Aid Kits

First-aid kits should be readily accessible and routinely inspected. Employees should notify their supervisor when:

• Supplies have been used.
• Items are missing or damaged.
• Sterile packages have been opened.
• Products have expired.
• The kit is contaminated or otherwise unsuitable for use.

Do not wait until an emergency to discover that needed supplies are missing.

Remember

Know where the first-aid kit is located and become familiar with its contents before an injury occurs. Use supplies only as intended, protect yourself from bloodborne pathogen exposure, and obtain professional medical assistance whenever an injury exceeds the level of care you are trained to provide.