ErsteHilfeSet

Erste-Hilfe-Set is a collection of supplies designed to provide immediate care for injuries and sudden illnesses before professional medical help is available. They are commonly used at home, in workplaces, in vehicles, and in public spaces. The contents and size vary by context and national regulations, but the goal is to enable basic first aid such as cleaning wounds, controlling bleeding, immobilizing injuries, and supporting patients until help arrives.

Typical contents include sterile dressings and bandages, adhesive plasters, sterile wipes, antiseptics, disposable gloves, scissors, tweezers, safety pins, crepe bandages, triangular bandage, a rescue blanket, and a basic instruction manual. Some kits also include burn dressings and emergency contact information.

Standards and compliance: In Germany, recognized standards such as DIN 13164 for motor vehicle first-aid kits and DIN 13169 for workplace sets guide minimum contents; other countries have their own guidelines (e.g., UK BS 8599-1). Compliance aims to ensure readiness and quality of supplies.

Maintenance and use: Items have expiration dates; replace used or damaged items; store in accessible location; regularly check and restock and ensure the lid is easy to open in an emergency.

Limitations: An Erste-Hilfe-Set is a first-aid aid and does not replace professional medical care. Training in basic life support and first aid improves the effectiveness of kit use.

See also: First aid, Emergency medical services.