What Should I Have in a Home First-Aid Kit?

The Ready Care Clinic • May 19, 2025

When it comes to caring for your family’s health and safety, having a fully stocked first-aid kit in your home is one of the most effective ways to be prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s a minor cut, burn, or sprain—or something more serious that requires quick action before professional help arrives—a first-aid kit is a must-have in every household. At The Ready Care Clinic, with locations in Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg, and Crab Orchard, KY, we’re here to help our communities stay safe and informed.

An open first-aid kit with a variety of necessary materials at The Ready Care Clinic near Harrodsburg, Kentucky (KY)

Essential Items for a Home First-Aid Kit

Here’s a list of must-have items that every household in Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg, Crab Orchard, and the surrounding areas should include:

Basic Supplies:

  • Adhesive Bandages: For small cuts, scrapes, and blisters.
  • Sterile Gauze Pads and Adhesive Tape: For wounds or to protect injuries.
  • Antiseptic Wipes: To clean minor wounds and prevent infection.
  • Antibiotic Ointment: For cuts and scrapes to reduce infection risk.
  • Hydrocortisone Cream: For itch relief from insect bites or allergic reactions.
  • Oral Thermometer: To monitor fevers.
  • Tweezers: For removing splinters or ticks.
  • Scissors: To cut tape, gauze, or clothing if needed.
  • Instant Cold Packs: To reduce swelling from bumps or sprains.
  • Elastic Bandages: For wrapping sprains or supporting joints.
  • Gloves: To protect yourself and others when treating injuries.
  • CPR Face Shield or Mask: In case of emergency resuscitation.
  • Medications: Basic needs and prescriptions.

Emergency Items:

  • First-Aid Manual or Instructions: A quick guide for emergencies.
  • Flashlight and Extra Batteries: For power outages.
  • Emergency Phone Numbers: Include your doctor, local poison control, and nearby medical services like The Ready Care Clinic.


Keeping Your Kit Up-to-Date

It’s not enough to have a first-aid kit—you also need to maintain it. Here are a few tips for keeping your first-aid kit current and effective:

  • Check expiration dates on medications, ointments, and antiseptics every 6 months.
  • Restock items as they are used. Please don’t wait until it’s too late!
  • Inspect supplies regularly for damage or contamination—especially gloves, bandages, and gauze.
  • Store your kit in a cool, dry, accessible place. Make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.

You might even consider keeping multiple kits—one in your home, one in your car, and one in a travel bag—especially if you spend time outdoors or travel frequently. It’s also important to know where first-aid kits are in your workplace.

When to Seek Medical Services

While a first-aid kit is great for minor injuries and temporary care, it’s important to recognize when to seek professional medical services. Visit or call The Ready Care Clinic in Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg, or Crab Orchard if you experience:

  • Persistent or severe pain, bleeding, or swelling
  • High fever not relieved by medication
  • Allergic reactions with trouble breathing or swelling of the face/throat
  • Suspected fractures or dislocations
  • Head injuries
  •  Signs of infection (redness, pus, fever)
  •  Chest pain or trouble breathings.

If you suspect you’re having an emergency, call 911 for assistance.

We provide convenient, walk-in medical care in Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg, Crab Orchard, and surrounding communities like Frankfort and Versailles, KY.

Your Local Partner in Health

The Ready Care Clinic offers compassionate, prompt, and professional care without the long wait times you might experience elsewhere. Think of us as your trusted local provider for everyday medical concerns.

For more information about home healthcare support or to get seen by a provider, please stop by one of our locations or contact us today.

Serving Harrodsburg, Lawrenceburg, Crab Orchard, Frankfort, Versailles, and surrounding areas in Kentucky.

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