What should you include in your medicine cabinet?

The following items listed help you cope with most minor ailments and injuries. These items should be kept in a secure place, clearly labelled and out of the reach of children.

Click on the available links to find out more information regarding dosage, contraindications and adverse reactions. Information is provided by netdoctor.co.uk.

• Paracetamol
• Soluble Aspirin (not suitable for children under 12 and asthmatics
• Ibuprofen
• Decongestant (eg. Sudafed)
• Anti-diarrhoeal (eg. Imodium not suitable for children under 12)
• Re-hydration mixture
• Indigestion remedy (eg. Pepto-Bismol)
• Antiseptic
• Topical anaesthetic treatment
• Sunscreen - SP15 or higher and sunburn treatment
• Travel sickness tablets (eg. Kwells)
• Antihistamines (eg. Benadryl Allergy Relief)
• Selection of plasters, sterile dressings, elastic bandages, nonabsorbant cotton wool
• Tweezers,
• Sharp scissors
• Thermometer

First Aid Kit

In addition to your medicine cabinet contents, it is also advisable to form a basic first-kit. The items listed should be replenished regularly and readily accessible in case of emergency.

Basic materials

• Easily identifiable watertight box
• 20 plasters in assorted sizes
• 6 medium sterile dressings
• 2 large sterile dressings
• 2 extra-large sterile dressings
• 2 sterile eye pads
• 6 triangular bandages
• 6 safety pins
• disposable gloves
  

If you are interested in learning first-aid please see the St Andrew's Ambulance Association website for courses on offer.