If you’ve been to a combat lifesaving class, you’d have experienced that awkward moment when everyone’s watching you with anticipation, encouraging you to just swallow the NPA tube.
In this video, I will not give medical advice but will introduce you to the basics of individual first aid kits, what they should contain, and why they are crucial.
Firstly, why have one? Because your life matters. If you’re hit and suffer a serious injury, having the means to save your own life can make all the difference. Even though they can be pricey, it’s worth investing in a good one to ensure your survival.
I typically carry two first aid kits: one on my belt and the other on my plate carrier, each having its purpose.
The type of kit you get depends on your preference and budget. Some reputable companies include CRO Medical, Dark Angel Medical, and Blue Force Gear.
For my on-belt kit, I use the Blue Force Gear Micro Trauma Now Kit. It’s easily accessible and compact. However, it doesn’t come with a tourniquet, which I keep in my front pants pocket or ankle pocket, typically using either a CAT or Sof-T Wide tourniquet.
Regarding contents, there are variations based on individual preferences and roles. A good list recommended by various combat medics includes:
Combat Gauze Israeli Bandage Chest Seals Decompression Needle Nasopharyngeal Airway Casualty Card Tape Tourniquets (x2) The Blue Force Gear Micro Trauma Now Kit includes QuikClot, Chest Seals, a Medical Trauma Bandage, gloves, nasal pharyngeal tube, and FrogTape.
Now, let’s talk about boo-boo kits, different from first aid kits. These kits focus on addressing minor issues and infections common in austere field conditions.
Here are some items to consider for a boo-boo kit:
Triangular Bandage Gauze Pads Band-Aids Butterfly Bandages Super Glue Iodine Prep Pads Triple Antibiotic Ointment Burn Gel Lip Balm Electrolyte Packets Anti-Diarrheal Antihistamines Aspirin or Ibuprofen It’s crucial to receive training on how to use these items effectively. I’ll be sharing more resources and collaborating with combat medics in upcoming videos to cover these aspects.
For wool socks, they’re highly recommended for their comfort and protection, especially during field events. Smart Wool and Darn Tough are two excellent brands to consider.
Remember, having the right medical supplies is only half the battle. Proper training is vital to ensure you can confidently respond to emergencies.