15.) Bactine- Great for isolating open wounds and adhering gauze. A smart thing to carry in the backcountry
14.) Electrolytes Essential to replenish at times when the body has lost precious salts from sweating, exerting oneself, and not eating well. Theres no substitute for staying hydrated and eating properly, but have these on hand in case of an emergency.
13.) Syringe- Very useful for irrigating woulds and large cuts or flaps. Cleanliness is next to godliness, and when trying to prevent infection, this is your first step!
12.) Cloth/Bandana- Very small, and very useful. You can use a cloth cravat to stem bleeding, make a tourniquet, immobilize a joint, or wrap a severed finger in ice! Gross, but true!
11.) Tweezers This item is very important to remove objects from the wound site and prevent against infection.
10.) Benadryl- Antihistamines can reduce allergic reactions within manageable symptoms and promote recovery. Essential in the med-kit for any trips where allergies are present from ragweed, to dusty canyons, to bee stings, antihistamines are hugely useful.
9.) Antacid- Great to carry for symptoms of chronic digestive discomfort. Acid reflux is common, especially after a spicy campfire dinner.
8.) Scissors- Essential in situations where clothes need to be cut off to expose life threatening wounds, and very helpful in creating traction devices, bandages and wraps.
7.) Ibuprofen/Advil- Very useful for pain management and in situations where the patient is experiencing fever or extreme discomfort.
6.) Splint- Invaluable for immobilization of joints, and appendages, and can double as a C-collar in a pinch. Worth the bulk in your kit on a serious adventure.
5.) Band Aids- Never underrated, band aids are perfect for small wound management. Cloth band aids encourage airflow, and are a must have in your kit. Carry different sizes to accommodate different wounds.
4.) Second Skin- Great product for gaping wounds. Use to seal large gapes, then cover with a seal and tape.
3.) Triple Antibiotic Ointment- Once a wound is cleaned, it must be dressed, and covered. Here is your first step to dressing a wound, large or small, Use on initial treatment, then expose to air to promote healing.
2.) Medical Tape- The one thing you can’t have enough of. Good for anything in a pinch, but especially for dressing most any type of wound from open cut, to sprained ankle.
1.) Gauze- The other wound dressing essential. Absorbs bodily fluids, cushions bruises, and can be placed over treated wounds and sealed; gauze is absolutely essential to have in your med-kit.
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