Whilst children are on school grounds, the onus is placed on staff to ensure the safety of students to the best of their ability. With young children being prone to many ailments, from little bumps and bruises to more serious cuts, asthma attacks and allergies, it is important for education providers to be well informed and prepared for a wide host of scenarios.
Here are some must-have items that all schools should have on hand in case of emergency.
First Aid Kit
This probably goes without saying, however what goes into a first aid kit can vary so it’s important to ensure yours is well stocked with sanitary and effective products. Each school should have at least one major first aid kit that is kept within the sick bay, however for larger schools multiple first aid kits may be a good idea.
Things that should be included in a kit are:
First Aid Manual – There are a number of manuals available and these could be from the state ambulance service, the Australian Red Cross or St John Ambulance Australia.
Equipment for wound cleaning – This includes disposable towels and gauze swabs.
Equipment for dressing wounds – These will vary from individually packed eye pads to band aids, combine pads, wound closures and adhesive tape for attaching the dressings.
Bandages – You will need a range that includes triangular, conforming, crepe and heavy elastic bandages.
Injury treatment essentials – This includes scissors, tweezers, splinter probes and sharps container, flexible splints, safety pins, gel packs and ice packs.
Liquids – Sunscreen (SPF15–SPF30) that is suitable for sensitive skin should be kept on the premises. Sterile saline ampoules should also be held in case irrigation of eyes is required.
Hygiene and cleaning – Latex free gloves in various sizes will required, as will products for clean up such as paper towel, antiseptic hand wash, antiseptic wipes, paper tissues, sealable garbage bags as well as blood and vomit spill kits. Sanitary pads should also be kept.
EpiPen
A generic EpiPen may be a good addition to a first aid kit – especially if it is known that anaphylaxis sufferers attend the school.
Details from parents/guardians for children with specific medical needs
There may be instances where special medical attention is required for some students with particular medical conditions. In cases where specific medicine is prescribed, this should be kept separate from the first aid kit and kept with clear instructions of its use and intended recipient.