“Caregiver First-Aid Kit”
Nov 13, 2023 by Eileen Adler
The Red Cross recommends that all first aid kits for a family of four include the following:
- 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
- 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes), also found within our Family First Aid Kit
- 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
- 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
- 5 antiseptic wipe packets
- 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
- 1 emergency blanket
- 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
- 1 instant cold compress
- 2 pair of nonlatex gloves (size: large)
- 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
- 1 - 3 in. gauze roll (roller) bandage
- 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
- 5 - 3 in. x 3 in. sterile gauze pads
- 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
- Oral thermometer (non-mercury/nonglass)
- 2 triangular bandages
- Tweezers
- Emergency First Aid instructions
Whew!
But what about our emotional selfcare. We need to address that too.
- A snack to share. Friends in need are friends indeed.
- Post-it pads to make notes or to draw pictures to track your mood—self-awareness.
- Crayons or colored pencils to remind you to color your world.
- Use positive self-talk saying affirmations about yourself. Repeat after me: I am strong, and I love how strong my body and mind are. I am enough.
- Complete the sentence “I am . . .” with the first thoughts that come to your mind.
- Music can change a moment from blah to beautiful. Think of “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, “Roar” sung by Katie Perry, “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” sung by Marvin Gaye/Tammi Terrell, and “What A Wonderful World,” sung by Louis Armstrong
- A roll of lifesavers for you are the lifesaver for your care receiver and yourself.
- A heart shaped gemstone to showcase how special you are to your loved ones.
- A way to take a break – breathe, meditate, stretch, take five . . .
YOU DO MAKE A DIFFERENCE . . .
but finding a balance between knowing that you will learn to cope and survive with the help of selfcare but do not deny the severity of your situation. This is hard.
Studies show that those who receive an occasional respite break come back refreshed and recharged and are better able to cope with the demands of daily care.
