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As spring and summer approach, you might be planning vacations and weekend getaways. Many steps go into preparing for a trip, but first-aid items are often forgotten.
You can never be too prepared, and bringing the right first-aid items can help you conquer any unplanned injury or illness. These are five items you’ll want on your packing list for your next trip:
Medications
If you normally take prescriptions or over-the-counter medications, don’t forget them. It’s easy to forget the necessities when you’re excited for a trip, so make sure to pack up your medications in a safe container (and temperature-appropriate, if applicable) before you pack the rest of your belongings.
You can also pack pain relievers and anti-inflammatories (Advil, Aleve) to help relieve any pain or discomfort from traveling. Consider the environment you’ll be traveling to, and include any allergy medications you may need.
Bandages
An accident can happen at any moment, so you’ll want to be prepared. Make sure to pack bandages or bandage tape for any unexpected wound or cut.
Consider packing antiseptics and disinfectants to help sterilize any wounds before bandaging. The last thing you want on your vacation is an infection.
Sunscreen and Burn Cream
If you’re heading to sunny weather, you’ll need sunscreen and burn cream or aloe.
A nasty sunburn can seriously hinder a nice vacation, so make sure to apply sunscreen every hour or so, and include sensitive areas, such as the lips. There are several lip balms with sunscreen you can purchase.
If you do happen to get a burn, apply burn cream or aloe as soon as possible to help decrease the severity of the burn and relieve pain.
Ice Packs
Ice packs can come in handy. They can help ease any injuries that cause swelling or aching, and they can also help relieve pain from burns.
Have instant ice packs ready for any injury thrown your way. They are quick and easy to use and can make a big difference when it comes to unexpected injuries.
Scissors and Tweezers
Having a mini grooming kit that includes small scissors and tweezers can be very beneficial for little injuries and inconveniences that can occur while on vacation. Scissors can help cut bandage tape, among other uses, while tweezers are important for removing objects from the skin, such as splinters. Make sure to pack a pair of these for your next trip.
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Weekly Health Tips are brought to you by UCF Health, the College of Medicine’s physician practice. Offering primary and specialty care under one roof, UCF Health treats patients age 16 and up in primary care and age 18 and up for specialty care. Most major insurance plans are accepted. Two locations are now open: the original in East Orlando at Quadrangle and University boulevards just blocks from the main UCF campus, and the newest one in Medical City at Narcoossee Road and Tavistock Lakes Boulevard. Information for both facilities can be found at UCFHealth.com, or call (407) 266-DOCS to schedule an appointment.
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