Medical Supplies

gillmanNSF

Veteran Member
What is a good list of medical supplies to have on hand? I got all sorts of bandages, iodine, peroxide, epsom salts, rubbing alcohol, even crutches. But I don't know if my stash is complete.

I'm also thinking about getting some medical devices that could come in handy now as well as in the future, mainly, a wrist blood pressure monitor http://www.healthchecksystems.com/bpwrist.htm and a blood sugar monitor. The wrist one seems to actually be closer to the real thing according to this report: http://www.bio-medical.com/news_display.cfm?newsid=60 where it compares the Omron wrist monitor with the traditional mercury sphygmomanometer and a catheter placed in an artery (the "gold standard" of blood pressure.) Thinking of getting one so I can monitor my blood pressure.

So what's a good comprehensive list? (It's always good to rehash)
 

Fuzzychick

Membership Revoked
I could write a book, but I'm a nurse not pharmacist. I recently began compiling a skeletal list of basics for an ekit. There is alot of information on NDHnow.com. Hope that helps.
 

gillmanNSF

Veteran Member
I'll take a look. The One Touch UltraSmart Diabetes Meter Kit - Blood Glucose Monitoring System looks like a good device to have on hand. It's only $54 at American Diabetes company. http://www.americandiabeteswholesale.com/the-75/One-Touch-UltraSmart-Diabetes/Detail.bok BB King and Patty Labelle are spokespersons for this device. I haven't been diagnosed but I am overweight and work the graveyard shift, so it might behoove me to know my glucose levels.

I guess what I'm looking for are the more unusual items, most people wouldn' t think to prep for. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
 

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Fuzzychick

Membership Revoked
gillmanNSF said:
I'll take a look. The One Touch UltraSmart Diabetes Meter Kit - Blood Glucose Monitoring System looks like a good device to have on hand. It's only $54 at American Diabetes company. http://www.americandiabeteswholesale.com/the-75/One-Touch-UltraSmart-Diabetes/Detail.bok BB King and Patty Labelle are spokespersons for this device. I haven't been diagnosed but I am overweight and work the graveyard shift, so it might behoove me to know my glucose levels.


Good for you being proactive, like I said if the site I provided doesn't do it let me know, it can be a bit overwhelming. There are some sites where they offer the opportunity to buy what they they're selling. There are links on those that provide information regarding the meds you're interested in researching.
 

Fuzzychick

Membership Revoked
gillmanNSF said:
I'll take a look. The One Touch UltraSmart Diabetes Meter Kit - Blood Glucose Monitoring System looks like a good device to have on hand. It's only $54 at American Diabetes company. http://www.americandiabeteswholesale.com/the-75/One-Touch-UltraSmart-Diabetes/Detail.bok BB King and Patty Labelle are spokespersons for this device. I haven't been diagnosed but I am overweight and work the graveyard shift, so it might behoove me to know my glucose levels.

I guess what I'm looking for are the more unusual items, most people wouldn' t think to prep for. Any info would be greatly appreciated.


The diabetes expert here that would provide invaluable information like this would be Satanta.
 

Lindabel

Contributing Member
The glucose monitors are reasonably priced...the test strips needed are not...I would have to pay nearly $90 for 100 strips ( and they don't keep indefinitely)...and the lancets for poking for the blood samples are also pricey.

Look at the test strip prices for the machine you plan to get, before you buy...
 

ainitfunny

Saved, to glorify God.
How much can you spend?

We have a small(NONIN BRAND) battery- operated PULSE-OX meter that will tell you the heart rate and level of oxygen in the blood instantly.

THE NOW $250 (including shipping) investment(we paid $400, they were more expensive 2 years ago) proved WELL WORTH IT!!

THREE TIMES IT HAS SAVED A LIFE!!:
First time,....It told me hubby wasn't getting enuff oxygen and gave me the basis to call an ambulance. (He had double pneumonia and was admitted)

Another time, the pulse ox revealed that my mother was NOT just overly tired as she claimed, but she was actually DROWNING in her own fluids as her LUNGS HAD FILLED WITH FLUID, something we never could have expected as it had never happened to her before. Anyway we called an ambulance and they immediately admitted her to hospital.

The third time, the PULSE OX METER told me hubby had BOTH a very LOW oxygen saturation(70-73%) AND a pulse of 160+ that wouldn't come down EVEN WHILE HE WAS ALREADY HOOKED UP TO AND BREATHING FROM A LIQUID OXYGEN SUPPLY!!. Called an ambulance and medics said "Good thing you called right away, HE IS IN ATRIAL FIBRULATION and would have either died soon or gone on to have a massive stroke had you not caught it so soon!!"

Here is a good place to buy one cheaper than they charge at other websites:
http://www.portablenebs.com/nonin9500.htm
nonin9500-1.jpg
 
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Reasonable Rascal

Veteran Member
For long term management diabetics would need something other than a strip-based glucometer. Best suggestion I can think of would be a specific gravity unit that uses a hydrometer (weighted glass float inside a calibrated cylinter graduate). You measure urine sugar levels with it. Very old tech, reliable, and moderately accurate as things go but it takes practice. Works best for non-brittle diabetics.

Other items I would suggest include a decent BP cuff, the manual type. I've used the wrist cuffs extensively and they can be very finicky, never mind that they require batteries. Cuffs work best when they are matched to the diameter of the arm (or wrist for that matter). It is all a matter ot technique.

If you'd like a copy of the definitive book - so far, who knows what the future holds - on survival medicine then either lay out a few bux for a hardcopy

http://www.cafepress.com/austeremed

or nab the free download

http://www.aussurvivalist.com/downloads/AM Final 2.pdf

of Survival and Austere Medicine: An Introduction.

Lots of ideas in there and you can't beat the authors' expertise. [ahem]

RR
 

DustMusher

Deceased
If you want a pretty good list read RR's Patriot Aide Station.

throws me into the depths of Stuff Envy every time I re-read the list Andrea has for the PAS.

DM
 

Dennis Olson

Chief Curmudgeon
_______________
In 1999, I got something called "Hospital in a Box". LOTS of stuff, including supplies for minor surgery. Pricey, but well worth it IMO. I don't know if the vendor is still around.
 

BREWER

Veteran Member
BREWER

gillmanNSF: All the suggestions are good ones. The Ultra Smart has a One Touch Software program that has a cord that connects to the side port in the meter and into your computer which can download all your BS[blood sugar] levels. This is a great diagnostic to take to your Dr. Do you think you are diabetic or pre-diabetic? If you have the slightest doubt get thee to the Dr. and find out NOW. YOU cannot diagnois yourself with a glucometer. I can not over emphasize staying this side of becomining DIABETIC it's extremely important to not cross the line. Blindness, stroke, amputation are only some of the things diabetics have to duck and dodge. The muti-headed protian disease that Type II diabetes presents one with is a MAJOR B*itch. It can takes months to get stabilized with insulin [self injecting yourself several times a day], diet control, feeling like s*hit...and it is a very expensive disease. The pulse-oximeter is truly a miracle they used to be about $1000 a couple of years ago. Sometimes it is a lifsaver as ainitfunny so vividly described. A manual blood pressure cuff is a good idea, too. However, you must learn to to use these pieces of medical equipment. Have you taken a BASIC First-Aid course?. If not call your local Red Cross chapter and get started. Next get into an EMT course. Call the local Volunteer Rescue Squad and find out how soon you can sign up. I recommend the EMT course. This is a long intensive course ~4 months. You will never look back and not be glad you did this. :chg:

Hey, DustMusher link to the RR site, please?
 

BREWER

Veteran Member
BREWER

gillmanNSF: Here is a chapter from a book on emergency preparedness on First-Aid that I wrote, but have not published...yet. If you scroll to the very end you will find my list in a format that may print out better than it pasted here...maybe not, sorry.
Here are two books I think you should have. They are not cheap; however, the knowledge in them is worth it, IMO.
Nurse's Drug Handbook 2006 (Nurse's Drug Handbook) US$21.75
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/19...103-5570821-3299803?s=books&v=glance&n=283155
and
2003 Red Book Report on the Committee of Infectious Diseases (Red Book: American Academy of Pediatrics)Yep, US$119.95 It lists diseases, diagnosis, Rx's and dosage for damn near every disease known to mankind, not just pediatric diseases.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/15...103-5570821-3299803?s=books&v=glance&n=283155

Fuzzychick:Thanks for the compliment. :chg:


Chapter 7

Component List for First-Aid Kit

Virtually all the products, with a few exceptions, in my kit are the CVS ‘generic’ brand. You can compare the labels between the ‘branded’ and generic for comparative active ingredients, strengths or concentration and purchase the ‘generic’ equivalent for 50% less $’s. The only time I hesitate to obtain ‘generic’ substitutions is with analgesics (pain killers).[Ed. Note: Prescriptions that are critical e.g. heart medications, if it were me and I could afford it, I would stick with a branded prescription]. I have found that a Percocet/Percodan ‘branded’ is more consistently efficacious than its ‘generic’ cousin Oxycodone. When you need 100% reliable pain relief, pay the extra difference to acquire the branded name. See Appendix E for a component check-list. Print out this format. Laminate it. Place it in your First-Aid kit.
Purchase the following: 4.25oz. Mainstay Sterile Water pouches [Ed. Note: 5 year shelf-life (probably indefinite) and good for rehydration, wound cleansing and able to withstand temps from -40 to 210+ F : you can cut the smallest available end of the pouch and then squeezing, utilize the pressurized stream of sterile water for cleansing an open wound of debris before dressing and save precious water-available from Safe-Trek or Nitro-Pak a case of 60 pouches is ~$16.95], 1-Maglite (small 6” with 2 extra batteries) with a Nite-Eyes head-strap (purchase at camping store to allow hands-free movement or purchase a complete electric head lamp used by spelunkers), 1- Hypo-allergenic cloth tape (10’), 1- 5”x 9” Combine dressing (Sergi-Pad), 15- 3”x 3/4 inch Band-Aids, 5 -Junior Band-Aids, 10- 3”x 4” Non-adherent Pads, 1-4”x 131” Conforming Gauze Bandage (Sterile), 1-Ace Bandage, 1-2 Instant Cold-Pak Compress, 12-Q-Tips, 1-3”x 48” Conforming Bandage (non-sterile), 1-Waxed Dental Floss (w/toothbrush and paste), 12-Alcohol Prep-Pads, 50-Phazyme Anti-gas Capsules, 6-Exam Gloves (non-sterile pairs), 3-Medium Zip-lock sandwich bags (to place discarded contaminated bandages ,etc.),1-Nasal Spray(12-hour),1-Butane lighter non-child proof, 1-Hemostat (splinter removal and suturing), 1-Magnifying Glass[hand-held], 2-Sets of 3.0/4.0 silk sutures. 1- Antibacterial soap bar (small), 2- Blistex lip balm, 1-Wet Ones moist towelettes(40 clothes), 1- Eye Drops [Ed. Note: if you are hypertensive, diabetic, or have glaucoma you should consult a doctor regarding the effects of an opthomolic/vasodilator such as Visine] or add another eye wash i.e. artificial tears, 1-Oragel Toothache Relief (3/16 oz.) [Ed. Note: Oil of clove has been used for centuries to relieve toothache pain-buy it-it lasts along time!], 1-Triple Antibiotic Ointment (1oz.), 1-Lanacane Anesthetic Cooling Creme w/Aloe, 1-Cortaid Hydrocortisone Creme w/Aloe, 6- Imodium Anti-diarrheal Caplets w/directions, 12-Laxative Tablets (Senocot), 24-Benadryl(25mg.) Antihistamine tablets w/directions, 50-Aspirin(enteric coated), 50-Advil (ibuprofen) tablets(200mg.), 50-Excedrin-Extra strength, 50-Aleve Naproxen Sodium[200g Naproxen + 20mg. Sodium]perfect for menstrual cramping- read directions first!, 50-Tylenol (Extra strength-gel caps),1-Amonia inhaler, 1-Scissors (retractable), 6- E-Mergen-C Energy booster packets (good for a diabetic with low blood sugar), 1-Thermometer (Adult), 1-Benadryl Spray (2%) for insect bites, 1-Moleskin package, 1-Athletes foot spray and/or foot powder, 100-Potassium Iodide (Iodate) KIO3 (radiation protection for the thyroid gland) call The Survival Warehouse in Florence AL 256-718-0298 [100 tablets for $20].




This is from Jim Lord’s last letter of 1999 <www.jimlord.to> re: the FDA.

The FDA recommends that potassium iodide in doses of 130 mg per day for adults and children above one year, and 65 mg per day for children below one year of age, be considered for thyroid blocking in radiation emergencies in those persons who are likely to receive a projected
radiation doses of 25 rem or greater to the thyroid gland from Radioiodines released to the environment.

In case you think this is some sort of wacko survivalist thing, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and FEMA have been squabbling for almost twenty years over whether or not and who should pay for stockpiling of potassium iodide nationwide as a precaution against
nuclear accidents at power plants. Naturally, they have been unable to take any meaningful action.

Iodine tincture (2%, 1oz.) [Ed. Note: iodine can be used for emergency water purification- See Appendix B below], 1- 2oz. Stabilized Oxygen [Aerobic 07 or Ion]- a water purifier and an anti-toxin for insect stings is a must in your kit. [Ed. Note: go to www.Nutraceuticals2000.com or www.watertanks.com and buy this product! See more in Appendix B], 1-Pen and small pad of paper or stick up notes, 1-Space blanket (for treating shock), 4-Zip-lock bags (various sizes).
Caution: Before dispensing any Rx to anyone be sure to ask if they have any ALLERGIES to that (or any) medication or if they are currently taking any other medications (contraindications) including herbal medications or vitamin supplements. Yes, aspirin is a medication and some people are allergic to it!
In light of the recent Anthrax scare (2/98) the NBC mask [+ extra filter(s)] now seems like a good idea. Place these masks in a gallon size Zip-lock bag to keep dust and dirt free. Keep them at hand.
This is a partial list that does not include your personal prescriptions especially should you or a family member have asthma, hypertension, diabetes, contact lenses, acute allergies, or baby needs. If you use a small backpack to place your First-Aid items in, add a supply of Kleenex (remove from the box and store in a zip-lock bag for space saving/dryness/dust protection), a partial (or full) roll(s) of toilet paper(place in Zip-lock and squeeze out the excess air), and perhaps some tampax or condoms/birth control items or diapers. Get out your Food Saver and seal up many of these supplies.
Ed. Note: I have contracted lice twice (yes, and I still don’t know how), however, children contract them from school mates with increasing frequency. A four person family kit of RID or NIX should be purchased. Just in case.
Above all, use your imagination with this kit. Play What if? Pretend this may be your only access to ‘everyday’ items for an extended period. Do you have children and the children’s strength aspirin, Tylenol, and cough medicine? What are the items you would be uncomfortable going without?
Here’s a good personal example. A great product I was introduced to by Dr. B that really relieves dry, cracked hands is Porter’s Lotion. This is a Depression Era formula that has been revived and reintroduced by the good folks at Gallatin River Products, Inc., Bozeman, MT [800-806-1161(o), 860-927-0111(fax). This product is in my ‘kit’ because it is a practical item that I would rather have for the winter when my hands are painfully dry, cracked and red.
Again, include a 2 week supply of necessary Rx in this kit. Rotate frequently to keep up freshness. You should consider having a two/three month supply of critical Rx at home and rotate this stock, too.


This First-Aid kit should be in your car or near you (i.e. in your house or at your place of business, if properly secured) at all times especially if you live in an earthquake or hurricane prone area. Each member of the household should have a kit, know what is in it, and how to use each item.[Ed. Note: don’t worry about duplication here-that may be a huge advantage to you during an emergency. You may multiply some of the items by a factor of 5x or 10x for at-home storage].
Ask your doctor for prescription of strong pain killers (analgesics) i.e. Percocet, Tylox, and Valium/Lorazapam (sedative/anti-anxiety), add Penicillin, Cefloclor (Clephalosporin), Augmentin(Amoxycillin+Clavulanic Acid) -broad spectrum antibiotic-and Tetracycline(very limited shelf-life) to be placed in this family First-Aid/Emergency Kit for a medical crisis only. Assure him/her you will return the tablets unused after 1 year to show your trustworthiness.
At the ‘invitation’ of my dear friend Dr. B, who is a nationally recognized and accomplished pediatric surgeon, I became an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). I have been extremely grateful for the confidence and peace of mind it brings! However, the most skilled physician is limited to the ‘tools’ at hand. In an emergency the chances that you will find a doctor or nurse with skills, and no ‘tools’, is a good bet. The First-Aid kit above could potentially be a lifesaver!

At least one member [better if all members do] of your family should have a basic course in CPR and First-Aid! Remember if an earthquake, flood, rioting, severe weather, etc. strikes and you are on your own for a period of time (72 hours or more) you may need to lend assistance to your neighbor(s) or to the unexpected arrival of another family member(s) or guests/friends that may require medical attention.
Total cost of this kit can be reduced if you get several families to go in and buy the bandages, water, exam gloves etc., on sale, in quantity at Sam’s/ Costco/BJ’s, etc. Ask your family doctor for help, too.

First-Aid Component Check-list
4- 4.25 Sterile Water 1- Ammonia Inhaler 1- Stabilized O2 -2oz.
1- Mag-lite, batteries + bulbs 1- Retractable Scissors 1- Space Blanket
1- Mag-lite headband 6- E-Mergen-C Packets 4- Zip-lock bags
1- Hypoallergenic tape 1- Thermometer(Adult) 1- Kleenex
1- 5”x 9” combine dressing 12- Q-Tips 1- Toilet Paper Roll
15- 3”x ¾ ” Band-Aids 12- Alcohol Prep Pads All Adult Rx’s
5- Junior Band-Aids 6- Latex Exam Gloves(Pairs) Baby Needs
10- 3”x 4” Non-Adhering Pads 12- Laxative Tablets NBC Mask+Filter
1- 4”x 131”Conforming Gauze(sterile) 50- Aspirin Contact Solution
1- 3”x 48” Conforming Bandage 50- Phazyme[Anti-gas] Sunglasses
12- Fabric Sponges 3- Medium Zip-Lock Bags Tampax
1- Instant Cold Pack Compress 1- Butane Lighter[Adult] Birth Control
1-Toothbrush 1- Hemostat Condoms
2- Blistex Lip Ointment 1- Magnifying Glass Extra Batteries
1- Oragel Toothache Relief 2- 3.0/4.0 Silk Suture Sets Lg. Flashlight
1- Dental Floss-Waxed 1- Oil of Clove 1/10 oz. Tennis shoes
1- Triple Antibiotic Ointment 1- Wet Ones Towelettes Ax/saw
1- Cortaid Hydrocortisone Creme 1- Visine/Artificial Tears Shovel
6- Imodium A/D 1- Lanacane Extra Water
24- Benedryl 25mg 1- Ace Bandage Children’s Rx’s
1- Benedryl Spray 2% 1- Moleskin Ball Cap
50- Ibuprofen 200mg. Tablets 1- Foot Powder Knit Hat
50- Aleve 100- Potassium Iodate[KIo3] Bible/Pen/Paper/Cards
1-SPF-Sunblock 30+ 1-Insect Repellent Broad Brim Hat
1-Anti-bacterial Soap 1-Triangular Bandage Compass &Maps
6-Butterfly Bandages 1- Saline Eyewash w/applicator Fishing Gear
Water Purifier[PUR] w/extra filter 1-Bandana Matches/Firestarter
and Sports Bottle/Canteen 1-Comprehensive First-Aid Medical Book/Manual
 

Grantbo

Membership Revoked
This is Grantbo
Medical supplies are nice if you know how to use them effectively.

Training is key!

Take a 'Wilderness First Responder Course'.
 

okie medicvet

Membership Revoked
I would like to say now that anyone who is seriously interested in not just being a prepper but in making a difference, period, should volunteer with the red cross, and in a time when there ISN'T a serious need. They will teach you skills that would really come in handy should TSHTF.

Also, when you have done some volunteer work with the red cross, you might just become more familiar with people that are not from your background, ethnicity, or income brackat.

Maybe that might not only help you to survive in a worst case scenario, but might help someone else who might perhaps be judged harsher and not given the same chance because of fear and ignorance..a chance to survive, and maybe even live long enough to repay the favor that you have granted..the favor of life.

I think that anyone that thinks that they don't have enough money to prep needs to realize that it's not just about money..sometimes it is about pain..it is about btdt..it is about willing to learn..

and not necessarily the red cross..I really think that if someone lives where they can volunteer for anything ....where they can be in some small way part of their community and learn something in the meantime, they should seriously jump at the chance. jmo.
 

Jumpy Frog

Browncoat sympathizer
While I do not endorse or support American Red Cross.

I do agree that joining a volunteer organization will benifit you in prepping. I'm a CERT trainer. CERT is sort of what the Civil Defense used to be in the Cold War days. We train and prepare people from our community for those forseeable events. Then we assist both Gov't (mostly local Gov't, sometimes State OES and rarely FEMA) and NGO's (Yes I even help ARC....and others like United Way, Salvation Army, assorted faith based assistance groups, etc) in manpower needs, organization, transportation, etc. Free up the paid pros to go do what they do best. I've worked floods, fires, SAR and a number of drills.......one in a few weeks for Bird Flu.

What is nice is you do develop contacts that can provide a heads-up, advanced training opportunitys, plus I have ID that gets me through road blocks that just might help out in a SHTF.

So in a way it is a two for one.............I get to help my fellow man (or woman) and I get to help myself and my family. Either way it is a good thing.

Also, I totally concur with Grantbo on the Wilderness First Aid course........if you can take one that has Medics, Doc's, Nurses or at least EMT's.....or one for military/LEOs. They'll cover more.......prepper type info IMO. I've taken two......well the second one I helped to teach. The first one was for civies like hikiers, skiers, snowmobilers, etc........very basic EMT or 1st responder level stuff. The other one was for SAR rescue Medics.......very cool info. :groucho:
 

Reasonable Rascal

Veteran Member
If you can afford one of the courses offered by these folks you will be worlds ahead of any Red Cross or similar courses. Farther ahead than even with an EMT course. Take a 2-week course down in Belize as offered by them - think WEMT on steroids, with all the tricks the "basic" courses won't/can't teach.

http://www.gmrsltd.com/

Costly? With travel, etc, yes. Worth it? If you plan on making medical survival a comprehensive part of your overall plans, then unequivocally yes.

RR
 

gillmanNSF

Veteran Member
Wow, this is a lot more than just storing a few cottonballs and rubbing alcohol. I guess my first inclination was to store medical preps, that other, more qualified people could use in an emergency if there are no emergency services available. Certainly not ME! :shkr: But you are all correct about becoming more of a resource for your neighborhood and community in the event of an emergency. My choices are limited though due to my work schedule, which is why I want to stock up on supplies that might be useful in more capable hands. High density living has it's advantages in that there has to be a nurse or a doctor living around here somewhere. Of course, this assumes that everybody is home when an emergency strikes. I wonder if there are any online courses.

Another medical device I thought of prepping for is that zapper thingy to jump start a stopped heart. A defibrillator. There are some pretty snazzy models out there and they appear very expensive. Does anyone have any home defibrillator stories? That blood oxygen device seems like a must have.

As for the blood glucose level device, I don't have any indications that I might be diabetic, but I do have a healthy dose of fear. I'm in my mid-forties and that youthful optimism has worn off. :lol: My mortality is certain, but by what? :shkr:
I don't live my life in fear, but now I have concerns and want to make good choices and establish good habits.

If anyone has any other suggestions as to a medical device or out of the ordinary medical supplies that might come in handy in an emergency, please chime in!

Thanks again for your great input!
 

Jumpy Frog

Browncoat sympathizer
AED's (automated external defibrillators) are very useful when the patient meets the pre-programed heart rhythms. I could show you how to run one in under 10 minutes. They are KISS simple to use. The batterys last a very long time. I have one in my truck right now.

Also you may look into a BVM (Bag Valve Mask) to assist in CPR and rescue breaths.

Some 1st responder and EMT courses can be had on-line FWIW.
 

Fuzzychick

Membership Revoked
gillmanNSF said:
Wow, this is a lot more than just storing a few cottonballs and rubbing alcohol. I guess my first inclination was to store medical preps, that other, more qualified people could use in an emergency if there are no emergency services available. Certainly not ME! :shkr: But you are all correct about becoming more of a resource for your neighborhood and community in the event of an emergency. My choices are limited though due to my work schedule, which is why I want to stock up on supplies that might be useful in more capable hands. High density living has it's advantages in that there has to be a nurse or a doctor living around here somewhere. Of course, this assumes that everybody is home when an emergency strikes. I wonder if there are any online courses.

Another medical device I thought of prepping for is that zapper thingy to jump start a stopped heart. A defibrillator. There are some pretty snazzy models out there and they appear very expensive. Does anyone have any home defibrillator stories? That blood oxygen device seems like a must have.

As for the blood glucose level device, I don't have any indications that I might be diabetic, but I do have a healthy dose of fear. I'm in my mid-forties and that youthful optimism has worn off. :lol: My mortality is certain, but by what? :shkr:
I don't live my life in fear, but now I have concerns and want to make good choices and establish good habits.

If anyone has any other suggestions as to a medical device or out of the ordinary medical supplies that might come in handy in an emergency, please chime in!

Thanks again for your great input!


I could write a book but that wouldn't be very helpful. Here are a couple of suggestions. Look into stocking up on certain antbiotics that you've had in the past for infections. Sometimes stocking things that you've never taken can be a big mistake if you have an allergic reaction to them. OTCs that are useful to have on hand are Immodium, Sudafed, Motrin, Tylenol, dramamine, it's an antihistamine and also treats nausea/motion sickness. If you take certain prescription meds, get in touch with your doc to get a script for at least 3 months of refills. The basics of bandages, antibiotic ointment are necessities. Then of course don't forget Samubucol, oscilliococcinum, camphor and tumeric. Just throwing some thoughts out here, hope it helps.
 

Giblin

Veteran Member
We have two scalpels and blades in our 2 first aid kits. Hope to never have to use them. :shkr: But glad to have them for an emergency. I have the Boy Scout First Aid Merit Badge book in the bottom of the big box.
 

Reasonable Rascal

Veteran Member
Since the issue of having items on hand for use by experienced providers was raised I'll toss in my 2 cents worth.

I had a modest but thriving medical supply sideline business prior to Y2K (still have it but it's not thriving anywhere close to those levels since then). My BEST customers were docs. Yes, doctors of human medicine. One was motivated by his wife to have supplies on hand "just in case." As she correctly pointed out in his case he relied entirely on the clinic to supply everything he needed for his patients. Should Y2K have come to pass as was feared beforehand there would have been no operating clinic. IIRC he purchased casting materials, sutures, basic instruments (he had none at home. zippo. zilch. nada) and bandages and dressings.

Another doc was down in FL and he purchased IV solutions and admin sets - cases of them. A bunch of instruments, more dressings, Steri-Strips, injection supplies, etc. In both cases they admitted they had virtually nothing at home should push come to shove and the electric fail or the supply chain, etc. For that matter had their employers closed they would have lost all access to supplies at even a basic level.

Only one preparedness group surpassed the docs for total volume and variety, and in that case there were nurses, a couple of veterinarians, a PA and medics available. The point of all this is simple: in our modern society healthcare providers equip themselves with little in the way of the tools of their trade. They don't carry, or even possess, "black bags" any longer. They see no need to. Most of the docs and PA's I see daily at work don't even carry a stethoscope, otoscope or penlight. That's supposed to be there on the floor for them, right?

I attend a preparedness group campout a couple of times every year. The site is several hundred miles away these days. Okay, well in excess of 1,000. Needless to say I fly now. I used to take a small hospital with me to set up an aid station there, back when I was able to drive to the event. I don't any longer because I have no need to. The people there are now well prepared, with appropriate survival medicine training as well as supplies. Merely by digging into their stash I can suture, splint fractures, treat respiratory emergencies, offer basic medications, dress wounds, etc. They have basic survival medicine training but much of what they stock is beyond that point. They keep the supplies on hand for use by myself or another nurse, who also attends part-time.

Now, as to other items that could prove useful in addition to the glucometer mentioned previously (the usefulness of which is determined by the shelf life of the strips themselves, which really do become errant after a while, so they should be as close to within date as possible) here's a suggested list based upon what I personally store:

- ventilator bags in adult, peds and infant sizes
- airways of various types (some limited to use by docs and paramedics)
- instruments sufficient to perform a basic laparotomy (appendectomy if needs be)
- plaster casting material and related supplies
- nebulizer machine, masks, and solutions
- oxygen bottles and related supplies, including 2 E-cylinders + smaller C's
- backboard and straps, along with c-collars
- moldable splints
- tractions splints
- pole stretcher
- desktop lab centrifuge
- microscope (need to upgrade)
- hemocytometer (for use with micro)
- foot-powered suction unit
- field autoclave
- disposable OB kits
- glass syringes and reusable needles
- linens, pillows, blankets and more linens
- infection control supplies by the case (gloves, gowns, caps, masks)

That's just off the top of my head. Some items I am overlooking or not mentioning, such as 2 mechanical ventilators that can be used short-term (think respiratory support in case of avian flu), and other items. I'm still building. Yes, some items are beyond my ken as far as ability to use proficiently, but then know some docs, etc who would be very glad to have them available to them. I'm not up to performing a lap myself but would willingly hand the instrument packs to a doc who has the skills, and even give them in trade for service if it was my wife's or my health at stake.

I can tell you with absolute certainty that if we encounter a true pandemic as is possible with bird flu that your chances of getting a hospital bed in the middle of the event are darned slim if your area is anything like mine. We have to close off empty beds now owing to lack of staff as it is, depending upon the day. ER visits of 4-12 hours are not uncommon, and the shorter visits are for simple cases. The docs are just that busy, and simple cases get bumped down the line by serious cases. Even now hall beds in ER are a daily occurence. And this is with a new hospital having opened down the road within a 15 minute drive. There STILL aren't enough beds/docs to go around on a busy day. A third hospital/ER is only 25 minutes away.

The more remote you are from an ER, the denser the population in your area, the worse you will fare should push come to shove. In the end for a time we may all have to fend for ourselves.

RR
 

Brooks

Membership Revoked
ainitfunny said:
We have a small(NONIN BRAND) battery- operated PULSE-OX meter that will tell you the heart rate and level of oxygen in the blood instantly. THE NOW $250 (including shipping) investment(we paid $400, they were more expensive 2 years ago) proved WELL WORTH IT!! THREE TIMES IT HAS SAVED A LIFE!!
I rented a pulse-ox during my father's final days of congestive heart failure. His values were always sort of ok with the visiting nurse came around, because he was sitting up at the time. However, when he tried to sleep it was a problem (yeah a hospital bed would have helped, but it was more than that). I rented the equipment because new it would have been closer to $1,000, as I recall. Another day I might have had enough info for his doctor to justify letting him have home oxygen. As it was, I thought there was a failure in the equipment. It only registered about 75%. I checked it again a couple minutes later and it was zero. Last breath was on its way. :shk:

I can see that this could be a critical piece of equipment during bird flu to know when you absolutely couldn't hold off exposing you and your loved one to an emergency unit. Alternatively, it might also provide you some comfort that your loved one is within tolerable ranges.
 

gillmanNSF

Veteran Member
That's some really good info and insight, RR. That's what I was thinking, to stock medical supplies and devices that could be of use to qualified people. I've always wanted my own microscope. I'm trained in using one and a hemocytometer at my work (I forgot about that, I HAVE A USEFUL SKILL!). I also know aseptic, and sterilization techniques and cell culture and how to use a blood gas analyzer.

Sutures and casting materials and lap instruments, great suggestions. Do you have a web address where one might get these and other items? I might as well make my estate sale REALLY interesting....medical instruments next to the Lenox china next to the rad meter next to the katadyn water filter, next to 100 cans of tuna. :lol:

Keep 'em coming. I'll be signing off soon to get ready for work tonight. Ordering online in the middle of the night can get "dangerous" and addicting. :lol: Eh, it's when I do my best research. :cmpcf:

Thanks Brewer and Fuzzychick for your info! OK, I'll have a my last Guinness, then it's off to bed! :chg:
 

Fuzzychick

Membership Revoked
gillmanNSF said:
That's some really good info and insight, RR. That's what I was thinking, to stock medical supplies and devices that could be of use to qualified people. I've always wanted my own microscope. I'm trained in using one and a hemocytometer at my work (I forgot about that, I HAVE A USEFUL SKILL!). I also know aseptic, and sterilization techniques and cell culture and how to use a blood gas analyzer.

Sutures and casting materials and lap instruments, great suggestions. Do you have a web address where one might get these and other items? I might as well make my estate sale REALLY interesting....medical instruments next to the Lenox china next to the rad meter next to the katadyn water filter, next to 100 cans of tuna. :lol:

Keep 'em coming. I'll be signing off soon to get ready for work tonight. Ordering online in the middle of the night can get "dangerous" and addicting. :lol: Eh, it's when I do my best research. :cmpcf:

Thanks Brewer and Fuzzychick for your info! OK, I'll have a my last Guinness, then it's off to bed! :chg:
 

Fuzzychick

Membership Revoked
Gill, there's alot to preparing, but you have to have the mindset. I have skeletal meds in stock, those that take into account my needs and my kids into account. As I've said before everyone is individualized, you can't get counts on needs, just anticipate them. I wish that people would look at their individual needs and account for them. Like I've said before. I wish I could be a pharmacist, but I'm not.
 

Reasonable Rascal

Veteran Member
Dennis Olson said:
In 1999, I got something called "Hospital in a Box". LOTS of stuff, including supplies for minor surgery. Pricey, but well worth it IMO. I don't know if the vendor is still around.

To the best of my knowledge that was a pre-Y2K fad item. Came and went with the great crash. I know another party who also bought one. IIRC they sold at the time for around $5-600.

The ultimate was the family of physicians from, I believe it was Florida, who put up for sale in 2000 their retreat in KY. Fully stocked, complete with infirmary, OR suite, supplies, etc. They were offering it as a package deal sans the Rx meds they'd stocked. Even had firearms as well as food. Apparently they planned to sell their services after the crash. And we all know what happened on Jan. 1 that year....

RR
 
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