Thread: whats in your first aid kit?

I think anybody going into the bush should carry a Trauma Kit, if your going hunting, you're crazy not to.

Mind you I said Trauma Kit, not a first aid kit. There is a difference, first aid kits are for minor injuries, Trauma Kit is for life threatening injuries.

It can be as simple as a Trauma bandage, such as the Israeli Bandage. I prefer the OLAES Bandage from Tactical Medical Solutions https://www.tacmedsolutions.com/ It allows for wound packing, and has an innovative pressure cup which can also be used for eyes injuries.

A Tourniquet can greatly multiply the life saving ability of the Trauma Bandage alone.

It can be a more complete Trauma Kit, inline with what every soldier is issued(finally):

• Tourniquet
• Trauma Bandage
• Petrolatum Gauze(Occlusive Dressing)
• Nasopharyangeal airway
• Surgical Gloves
• 2 Inch Tape
• Trauma Shears
• Z Folded Quickclot or Celox(Caution must be used at the choice of the Quickclot used, as previous types caused burns and scarring. The Z folded does not)

The ability to save a life is worth the little extra weight of carrying a small Trauma Kit.

I understand ST Johns still does not recommend or teach the use of tourniquets, but the medical proof of lives saved by them in the last 14 years of combat in Iraq and Afghanistan would argue with their position. Hopefully they will come around soon.

A separate first aid kit is useful for dealing with small cuts, scratches, rolled ankles and headaches.

Remember, all the gear in the world wont help you if you don't know how to use it. Get trained, and practice your skills.

How much do you value your life and the lives of your mates?