To have a first aid kit that is approved by the coast guard, it will need to meet the USCG Standard 160.041. This standard has several requirements.
Individual Cartons
The first aid kit must consist of individual cartons. Each of the cartons need to be labeled to determine what is in the carton, the size of the contents of the carton, how the contents should be used, and any State or Federal requirements. The container must be in a jacket that is watertight. The material is transparent and tough. Glass should not be used for vials.
Specific Quantities
There are specific requirements for how many items must be contained in the kit. For example, you'll need five 4-inch bandages, two 2-inch bandages and three triangular bandages. You'll need three sterile gauze and one aspirin.
Tourniquets
A tourniquet is another common item needed in a first aid kit. This is a bandage or a flexible strip of material that is designed to apply pressure. This typically comes with a pair of scissors and safety pins. The tourniquet is used to control a hemorrhage.
Treatment for Fainting
Ammonia inhalants are often needed to revive someone who is unconscious, also often called smelling salts. The ammonia triggers an inhaling reflex, which causes the lungs to work harder. It reverses the vagal parasympathetic effects that may have caused the individual to faint.
Treatment for Skin Irritation
An iodine applicator is applied topically to treat a skin infection. It should not be applied to open wounds and should not be taken orally. The dosage applied should be based on what is listed on the label.
Treatment for Eye Injuries
Ophthalmic ointment is used for those who have suffered an eye injury. The tube is squeezed on an inflamed eye. However, the tube should not touch the eye, which might damage it or cause irritation. An eye-patch is also available to apply to an inflamed eye.
Treatment for Broken Bones
Splints and wires are needed for those who have suffered a broken bone to immobilize the bone. The splint is held in place with a bandage. However, it's important to not attempt to set the bone.
A New Lifeboat First Aid Kit
Before purchasing a lifeboat first aid kit, it's important to make sure that you are following the current regulations. The requirements for a lifeboat might change in the future and will be based on best practices.
For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Safety NJ First Aid Kits.
Share31 October 2019
After watching my mother navigate treatment for breast cancer in my early teens, I knew pretty much what to expect from my dad's diagnosis with prostate cancer. What I didn't know was how different chemotherapy and radiation can affect different people. My mother became very ill while my dad seemed to weather the treatments with few ill effects. I spent a long time researching the differences in treatments, types of chemotherapy, and how each one can react differently with the body. I created this blog to help others understand the same things, because I knew I couldn't be the only one unfamiliar with it. I hope it helps you if someone you love is facing treatment for any type of cancer.
