Youth sports activities are in full swing during the spring and summer months which means cuts and scrapes. One of the most common questions little league-type sports organizations ask is what goes in our first aid kit? Each governing organization may have its own recommended list of items but often it is left up to the team coach or trainer.
Be sure to include the basics
Think about the potential injuries that could occur with your team. Consider the types of injuries that have happened in the past. All of these should be a pretty good way to identify first aid supplies you will most likely need when a teammate gets injured.
The shortlist
Here is the short list of supplies to help with common sports-related injuries:
- Cold packs or Ice are one of the most commonly used first aid supplies out on the practice field or at the game. Bumps, bruises, or other types of swelling caused by the impact will call for ice. Instant cold packs are convenient. Be sure they are safe and not leaking when you apply them, especially around the face.
- Bandages of all sizes and shapes will be used when there are cuts or scrapes. Scraped knees and elbows call for larger "patch" style bandages but gauze can be used as well.
- Gauze pads and absorbent dressings will help absorb blood and can be used to apply pressure and stop bleeding.
- Basics like tape or an elastic wrap will help keep cold packs and dressings in place so be sure to include those on your list as well.
- You will want to have antiseptic wipes and creams available to apply to the wound. Cleaning the wound is important and keeping it from getting infected is a priority.
- Of course, you will want to protect yourself when assisting in a first-aid situation so be sure to keep disposable medical gloves on hand. We suggest a "Non-Latex" glove made from vinyl or nitrile. Latex can cause skin irritations or even severe allergic reactions.
Prepare for emergencies
As with any organized event, it is important to have access to emergency medical personnel. Be sure to have a cell phone and the appropriate emergency number to call for emergency response people. Know your location and where possible, any special medical information about the person being treated.
Here is our suggested kit list:
To make things convenient, we've put together a great sports first aid kit and refill for teams that want a fast and easy way to get started. The refill includes:
- 2 Instant Disposable Cold Packs
- 1Tweezer2
- 1 Eye Wash 1 oz
- 1 Elastic Bandage 3 Inch
- 1 Scissor
- 2 Sting Relief Pads
- 2 Sting Relief Pads
- 1 Surgical Pad 5x9
- 1 Surgical Pad 5x9
- 4 Butterfly Closures
- 2 Ammonia Inhalants
- 1 Gauze Roll 2 Inch
- 1 Pair of Vinyl Gloves
- 3 PVP Prep Pads
- 3 Antibiotic Ointment
- 3 Alcohol Prep Pads
- 3 First Aid Burn Cream
- 3 Hydrocortisone Cream
- 3 Antiseptic Wipes
- 1 Athletic Tape
- 2 Tongue Depressors
- 1 Moleskin Patch
- 2 Medilyte Tablets
- 1 Muscle Gel Packet
- 8 Ibuprofen Tablets
- 6 Xlarge Bandages
- 4 Non-Aspirin Xtra Tablets
- 4 Antacid Tablets
- 4 Diphen Antihistamine Tablets
- 2 Sinus Tablets
- 20 Plastic Bandage Strips
- 10 Cloth Bandage Strips
- 4 Knuckle Bandages
- 4 Fingertip Bandages
- 2 Gauze Pads 2x2
- 2 Gauze Pads 3x3
- 1 Gauze Pads 4x4
- 1 Non-Adhering Pad 2x3
- 1 Adhesive tape 1/2 x 2.5
- Right Item 5
Sports First Aid Products & Accessories
MFASCO's Make a Kit Tool
Sports First Aid Kits
Reorder Lists for First Aid Kits
Additional Resources for Sports First Aid Kits & Supplies
The Coach's Guide to Sports First Aid Kits
Top First Aid Kits for Parents of Youth Athletes
Essential First Aid Kit Supply List
