First Aid Kit for the College Student

 

First Aid Kit for the College Student

 

Minor emergencies and illnesses may occur at any time. Packing up a few first aid essentials for the college student is a good reminder to always stay safe and a lesson in how to take care of problems while away from home. All that in one kit!

We recommend you assemble the following medications and items in a durable clear plastic box with a lid. The specified brand names of medications mentioned are merely suggestions. They may be substituted with comparable generic products.

 

What to Pack

 

Medications

  • Pain reliever/fever reducer (Ibuprofen, aspirin or aspirin substitute such as acetaminophen)
  •  Antiseptic skin cleanser (hydrogen peroxide or Betadine)
  • Antibiotic cream or ointment (Nesoporin)
  • Antihistamine for itching, stings, seasonal allergies (Benadryl or Chlortrimeton, Claritin)
  • Hydrocortisone cream for skin rashes, itching (Cortaid)
  • Antacid tablets or liquid (preferably) for upset stomach caused by eating/drinking food/beverages that irritate the lining of the stomach (Maalox or Mylanta)
  • Drying agent for poison ivy, oak, sumac (Calamine Lotion)
  • Antidiarrheal/antinausea tablets (Pepto-Bismol- however, do not use if you have an allergy to aspirin)
  • Antidiarrheal (Immodium A-D)
  • Decongestant (Sudafed)
  • Cough Medicine (Robitussin)
  • Throat lozenges (Cepacol or Chloraseptic)

Supplies

  • Oral or digital thermometer
  • Band-aids in assorted sizes, include butterfly bandages for small lacerations
  • Sterile gauze pads (4 x 4s)
  • Gauze – 3 inch roll
  • Adhesive tape
  • Scissors
  • Sunscreen
  • Reusable hot/cold pack
  • Elastic bandage for sprains

Don’t forget a Few Extras

  • Copy of their medical insurance card
  • Any pertinent medical information should be on a card carried in the student's wallet as well as included in their first aid kit.  This should include:

Allergies to medications

Allergies to food or anything else that causes a severe reaction

Physician’s name and office information

Any medical conditions such as seizures, diabetes, etc

Medications taken on a regular basis

Emergency Contact information

 
Page modified 5/21/10