If this year has taught us anything, it is that we must take better care of our health than ever before. One of the greatest ways to do so, regardless of age, is to ensure that your house is well-equipped for medical emergencies. You can never be too prepared, whether it’s for a small cut, sprain, bacterial infection, or the flu.
Here is a list of health, safety, and medical accessories that everyone should have.
1. Thermometer
A thermometer is a tool used to measure the temperature of the body. If someone has a high fever, the thermometer will help you keep track of their temperature and make sure it is not too high and there is no danger.
There are essentially two kinds of thermometers now available on the market. One is an oral thermometer, which is inserted under the tongue of a person with a high fever, and the other is a digital thermometer, which is placed in the ear or under the arm to monitor the temperature.
Digital thermometers are believed to be the most accurate, however they are more costly than oral thermometers. This may be a very valuable medical equipment at home, particularly if you have children. You never know when your children may get ill, so this will come in handy.
2. Bandages
Your first aid kit should include bandages. Scrapes, small cuts, and abrasions may seem to be minor, and they may occasionally heal on their own. However, it is preferable to quickly treat the wounds. Putting on a bandage keeps the wound from getting infected. When a wound is left open, germs can get in, which can make a small injury worse.
There are several kinds of bandages. The kind of dressing you apply will be determined by the nature of the wound. Most small injuries need the use of an adhesive bandage. You might also use gauze with tape. Other bandages you should have in your first aid box include waterproof adhesive bandages, sheer strips, flexible woven fabric bandages, and heavyweight bandages.
3. Nebulizer
A nebulizer is a popular respiratory device used to treat respiratory conditions such cystic fibrosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory diseases. The gadget converts liquid medication into a fine mist that the user inhales through a mask or mouthpiece.
People with severe lung diseases, young children, and infants may all benefit from using a nebulizer at home. Hospitals use many different kinds of nebulizers, but ultrasonic and jet nebulizers are the most common. Utilizing high frequency vibrations, ultrasonic nebulizers turn the medicine into a mist. High frequency vibrations can only be used in controlled environments, so these devices are often only used in hospitals. The kind of nebulizer that is easiest to use at home is a jet nebulizer. These devices employ compressed gas to transform medication into a mist that can be managed at home, making them less expensive.
4. Antiseptic Solution
Body scrapes and wounds are common in households, particularly if there are kids around. Inadequate care or sanitation may quickly lead to an infected wound. Having an antiseptic solution on hand will allow you to provide first aid as quickly as possible. Very few individuals seek medical attention for small cuts and scrapes.
When you buy antiseptic solutions, you should make sure to get ones that are gentle on wounds. It should be able to kill germs without making the wound worse or irritating the skin.
5. Blood Pressure Monitor
A blood pressure monitor, sometimes called a Sphygmomanometer, is yet another essential piece of medical equipment every household should have. BP, or blood pressure, is another problem that people of all ages often have. This medical problem, which may cause heart illnesses or strokes, may be neglected by many individuals. People with high BP (hypertension) or low BP (hypotension) are recommended to check their blood pressure regularly and report the results to their physicians, making this device very useful.
6. Pulse Oximeters
A pulse oximeter is a vital piece of medical equipment for those who have loved ones suffering from respiratory conditions including congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or any other kind of lung disease.
This tool measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. All organs in the body need to get enough oxygen from the blood cells in order to work properly. Hypoxemia is caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood, which may lead to the failure of essential organs such as the heart and brain. In such situations, the pulse oximeter is beneficial for ensuring that the patient receives early medical attention.
You will have to put the device on your fingertips, and it will send out two-wave light that will measure your heart rate and the amount of oxygen in your body. Once the job is done, the Pulse Oximeter will show the details on the screen.
7. Hot/Cold Packs
Both cold and hot compresses have their own uses in the world of home medical care. Add them to your medical supplies to help minor injuries, aches, pains, and strains heal and make you feel better.
Apply a hot compress to the affected area for aching muscles, sprains, strains, and mild injuries. Your hot pack should be quite warm but not hot enough to burn you. Wrap it with a towel for added protection when using.
Applying a cold compress to your lower back, the nape of your neck, or the location of an injury may help decrease swelling and discomfort. Don’t be caught unprepared for the next time muscle discomfort strikes; have a supply of frozen packs in the freezer. Protect your skin from frostbite by wrapping your pack with a light towel.
8. Weighing Scales
A weight scale is one of the most crucial medical tools to have if you are trying to lose weight. It is not only for those on a weight reduction program; weight is important in everyone’s life. A weighing scale measures your body weight, which is very helpful because sudden changes in mass can be signs of serious problems like hormonal imbalances or abnormal lipid metabolism.
As being overweight is linked to several health problems, it is important to maintain track of one’s weight. There are scales on the market that can also tell you your BMI and how much body fat you have. Having a BMI feature is very important these days, since overweight and obesity are the two main health problems that many people face, even at a very young age. Knowing your weight will help you maintain a healthy body weight.
9. Glucometer
Diabetes is another widespread health problem that affects a lot of individuals all around the globe. You should keep an eye on your blood sugar levels every now and then, because high sugar can cause a lot of problems if not treated on time.
A glucometer is a tool that you may use to monitor the amount of sugar in your blood. You can always depend on a glucometer to monitor your blood sugar levels, regardless of whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
When the machine is ready and prompts you for it, you will need to insert a drop of your blood into it. The reading will be shown on the device. Sugar levels are something that should always be recorded, since they may come in handy at some point in the future.
Final Thoughts:
Medical emergencies can happen at any time or place. Have you thought about what you might need if you get sick or hurt? When you have the right medical supplies on hand, you can deal with accidents and other problems quickly and effectively. It can also shorten the time it takes for injuries to heal and keep them from getting worse.