When you’re in a pinch and facing a medical emergency the stress can get to you. Knowing what you can do before a disaster happens will give you an advantage.
As the great philosopher Confucius said, “success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.”
Being prepared for medical emergencies is key in succeeding in stressful situations. You would be surprised to learn of what household items you can use in a medical emergency. The following 10 everyday items will give you an advantage should you face a medical emergency:
Credit Card
Credit cards can be used for two medical emergencies. First and most commonly known is to remove bee stingers. To do this, scrape the credit card towards the tip of the stinger. The second use for a credit card is to create a finger splint. Bend the card into a U-shape and use the two card halves to make a splint.
Super Glue
Used sparingly, you can close a cut with super glue. Simply wash the cut clean and add a very small amount of super glue to skin. Be careful not to use too much or apply directly inside wound. For deep cuts, seek medical attention.
Oatmeal
While a delicious breakfast, oatmeal can also be used to treat pain and itchiness. Next time you are sunburned, experiencing eczema, or dealing with a rash, apply oatmeal to the affected area. Oatmeal is great for relieving pain and rashes from poison ivy, too.
Honey
Honey can do more than soothe a sore throat. Use it to disinfects wounds or heal burns. Add a layer of honey over the affected area.
Wooden Ruler
If you have a long wooden ruler, you can create a temporary splint the next time you’re in need. Simply place it against the broken limb and wrap with fabric to secure. Don’t use duct tape to secure in place because it can be hard to remove.
Elmer’s Glue
Glue can be used to remove a stubborn splinter. Apply a drop of glue over the splinter and allow to dry. Peel off the glue, and the splinter will become loose and come out when tugged. For more DIY home remedies for removing splinter’s, click here.
Socks
In addition to keeping your feet warm, socks can hold bandages in place. You can secure bandages by sliding the sock over the bandages and the affected limb. You can also slide a sock over an ice pack to stop the ice from burning your skin.
Towels or T-Shirts
Use a towel or old t-shirt to create a tourniquet or a bandage. You can do this by cutting small strips of fabric to make a tourniquet, and wrapping wound with large strips to make a temporary bandage.
Cotton Balls
Use cotton balls to pack small wounds to stop bleeding. The cotton will soak up the blood. Continue packing until bleeding stops as temporary solution.
Sugar Cubes
Sugar cubes are most useful for tea but when a diabetic’s sugar levels are low, a sugar cube will avoid a medical emergency. You can also use juice, a lollipop or other sugary foods.
These are household items that can be used when facing a medical emergency, but many of these solutions are only temporary. Always seek medical attention for deep cuts, broken limbs, or unusual bleeding, pain, or rashes. Feel free to call us at 801-724-9840.