College Health: First Aid Supplies

Going to College and Staying Healthy:
First Aid Supplies to Take with Me to College

What should I take with me to college in case I get sick or have a small emergency?

You should bring a first aid kit with you to college. It should include:

Bandages for small cuts and scrapes
Gauze and adhesive tape
Antibacterial/antibiotic ointment (bacitracin, Neosporin)
Scissors and tweezers
A thermometer
An ice pack or chemical cold pack
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for aches and fevers
Medicine for menstrual cramps (ibuprofen, naproxen sodium)
Medicine for allergies (especially if you have itchy eyes and sneezing from pollen or dust)
Cough and cold medicine
Sore throat lozenges
Calamine lotion

These things will be useful if you don't feel well or you have a minor health issue. Ask your primary care provider before you leave for college if you need to have medicine for yeast vaginal infections or urinary tract infections. Don't forget, if the problem is serious or if you are unsure about what to do, call or go to your Student Health Service and get help there.

Make sure you buy a book about personal health care!

Check out these other College Health Guides:

Knowing About My Health Before I Go to College

Health Services and Health Care Providers

Staying Healthy at College

Some Common Health Problems at College

Violence/Abuse in Relationships