Essentials in a first aid kit?
We all know first aid kits are good to have, but what really needs to be in them? You can get a $2 one with bandaids and some ointment up to ones costing several hundred dollars. From what I can tell on the cheaper end ones other than the bag itself, you might as well assemble your own.
The new fad is to have a 'trauma kit'. Exactly what is in
one of these as opposed to the platoon medic's bag, I don't know. I imagine some level of training would be required as well. Other than that you have to be able to clear the airway, stop the bleeding and treat for shock before evacuating (when appropriate) the patient. Spinal injuries? That is an aw you-know-what moment...
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Sincerely,
Hobie
The new Quik Clot type stuff is probably good to have
While my wife was on blood thinner after knee replacement I made her carry a packet in her purse
have you taken a first aid course? Red Cross teaches this
do it.
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Of the Troops & For the Troops
Good point. they are pushing this at work anyway
Nm
Combat Life Saver....
This is the bag the go fast boys are sporting these days...will cover most any injury that is "saveable" until the pros show up....http://olive-drab.com/od_medical_kits_postww2_cls_bag.php
More important than the gear is trauma first aid and the standard is the DoD "Combat Life Saver" course. It is taught through a number of organizations to civilians...the Red Cross gets close...will not cover GSWs....check with your local law if you are friendly with them....they may be able to get you into an "inner circle" real Combat Life Saver class...
There are a number of the gunslinger trainers who teach this stuff...get trained one way or the other...
Byron
Combat Life Saver.... thanks for reminding us of the correct
and current terminology.
Technology and knowledge are continuously improving. It helps to stay up to date. Unfortunately, in some circumstances one will not survive without follow-up professional care which may not be available quickly in the event of a catastrophic event requiring a bug out bag.
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Sincerely,
Hobie
Triage.............
Some won't survive no what is done....
The point is to deliver the most effective care to save the most number of lives...
Training will help to id those that are not in danger....those that require care to survive and then those to just make as comfortable as possible.....
Byron
Tom, you should be able to take ...
basic and advanced on "state" time. We have to take both, along with keeping our CPR certification current. They started to require it after the "Big Earthquake Drill" in 2006.