The holiday season is the time for gathering with friends and family, traveling to new places, and trying new things. However, with all the excitement, it’s easy to forget that accidents and injuries can happen.
It’s essential to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances, especially when traveling to an unfamiliar place. Packing a holiday pharmacy kit is an excellent way to ensure adequate medical supplies are available when needed.
This guide covers some of the most common injuries experienced during the holiday season and the types of products that should be included in your holiday pharmacy kit.
Burns
Burns are common during the holiday season due to an increase in cooking and the use of candles. The first step in treating a burn is to remove the heat source and reduce the burn area’s temperature.
With severe burns, seek medical attention immediately. Meanwhile, use the following products to help alleviate discomfort:.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is known for its cooling properties, which can ease the pain and swelling of a minor burn and promote healing. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the affected area several times a day for relief.
Burn Gel Dressing
Burn gel dressings are also known as hydrogel dressings and are essential for preventing infections on burnt skin. The dressing helps cool down the burn and creates a protective barrier against dirt and bacteria.
Place the Burn Gel Dressing over the area and wrap with a bandage to secure it in place.
Burn Cream with Lidocaine
Burn cream with lidocaine is a pain-relieving topical cream that can help to numb the area around the burn. Apply a thin layer of burn cream to the affected area several times a day for relief.
Be cautious when using, do not apply to any burns with blisters or open wounds.
Wounds and Cuts
Minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds can occur during the holiday season while exploring the outdoors, decorating, or just engaging in holiday activities. These wounds and cuts should be treated promptly to avoid infection.
Below are a few products that should be included in your holiday pharmacy kit for treating minor wounds and cuts.
Antibacterial Ointment
An antibiotic ointment will help protect from infection by killing bacteria and promoting healing. Apply a small amount of ointment to the wound and cover with a sterile bandage after cleaning.
Bandages or Adhesive Strips
Carry various sizes of bandages and adhesive strips to fit any type of wound or cut. These are primarily used to keep the wound clean and dry, keeping bacteria out, and prevent additional damage or injury.
Wound Irrigation Solution
Wound irrigation solution is saline water used to clean debris or dirt out of the wound before disinfecting it. For cuts that are properly cleaned before treatment, it inverts the infection risk.
Insect Bites and Stings
When outside in unfamiliar lands, there is a greater percentage of getting attacked by insects. Insect bites and stings can be very uncomfortable, leading to inflammation and irritation. Below are a few remedies helpful for bites and stings:.
Anti-Itch Cream or Ointment
Anti-itch creams are used to help relieve the itchiness that is experienced pain related to insect bites and stings. Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area to relieve the itch.
Bite and Sting Relief Wipes
Bite and sting relief wipes help reduce any sting feeling and itchiness experienced with an insect bit or sting. Use the wipes to clean the bitten or stung area and ease the discomfort.
Deet-Based Insect Repellant
Insect repellant is important to carry with you when traveling and spending significant amounts of time outdoors. A deet-based insect repellant is crucial for providing extensive coverage and helping keep insects from attacking.
Conclusion
When considering the activities to enjoy over the holiday season, it’s essential to be prepared for any medical mishaps that may arise. Even the best of us will incur a mishap when engaged in unfamiliar surroundings.
So be preemptive, pack your holiday pharmacy kit with these remedies for burns, wounds, insect bites, and stings. It’s critical always to use them as directed and consult a doctor if any adverse reactions happen.