At Home Medical Kit – Living with a Spinal Cord Injury

When I got sick from a parasite this past August, I realized how many tools I needed to manage my illness and injury, especially as I was not diagnosed with the parasite until 16 days after symptoms appeared. Below you’ll find the items I have in my at home medical kit. Most of the things I have listed below for you were in different cabinets throughout the house, and the things I did not have, had to be purchased through Amazon — thank goodness for Prime!

My wife and I have compiled a list, with links, of what we have now deemed our “in case of…” kit. This list does not include the bandages, ointment, antibiotics, daily prescription medicines, or dietary needs, but is a basis for when the the going gets rough and you are not feeling well.

• First, let’s start with the container – you can use a regular plastic bin for storage, or store in a rectangular medical basin. You can buy them in bulk online, and it also comes in handy if you are nauseous – which I was when I had the parasite. They are disposable so there is no worry about them becoming contaminated or needing to be cleaned. Everything stays in the closest bathroom, under the sink, ready to be pulled out at a moments notice. It should also be noted that I keep this kit in our bathroom in the event that I am alone, I do not have to go far for my supplies.

• Blood Pressure Monitor

Since my spinal cord injury, I have long struggled with autonomic dysreflexia. Keeping the blood pressure cuff around helps understand my spasms, urination, sweating and body temperature.

• Thermometer

This is a given!

• Compression Socks

I like compression socks that also keep my feet warm. If you can find some with rubber on the bottom, even better!

• Catheters

The JAW catheter is my preferred urological tool and what I have readily available. However, when I am sick, using a catheter that stays in (indwelling) helps reduce any accidents.

• Infection Control Urinary Drainage Bag

I appreciate the Infection Control Urinary Drainage system because I want to monitor my health through urine color, and if there is any blood, I can keep the bag for the doctor to run tests on.

The following items can be purchased through your local pharmacy or supermarket:

• Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen

These over the counter medications reduce inflammation and pain. Consult your doctor to be understand which option will be best for your body.

• Disposable Gloves

Gloves helps reduce risk of spreading germs and cross contamination.

• Disposable Surgical Masks

I am not a total germ-o-phobe, but when I am traveling to the doctor’s office or hospital I like to use a mask to reduce my risk of catching other bugs lingering in the air.

• Disposable Bed Mats

Let’s face it: accidents happen! These pads are used in the hospital for quick clean ups, and work just as well at home.

• Alcohol-based Cleaning Wipes (for remotes, phones, etc.)

EVERYTHING gets wiped down at our house! If your hand touches it, it is getting cleaned.

• Alcohol-free Cleaning Wipes

These wipes are for cleaning around wounds, assisting when taking off medical tape, etc.

• Hand Sanitizer

Since I stay in bed for the majority of time I am sick, I keep hand sanitizer next to the bed for myself and any well-wishers!

• Tape

The tape is for the catheter… you do the rest.

• Tissues

I’ve found the tissues with aloe or Vick’s vapor rub are the best way to go when you’re blowing your nose 238,720,937 times a day.

• Water

Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! It may lead to you peeing a lot, but it is better than becoming dehydrated… And, well, that is a whole other issue to deal with, and you do not need that.

I hope this helps when building your own medical emergency kit at home. Remember, trial and error: what may work for me, may not work for you! Base your kit on your needs, the assistance of others and level of function.

*Note: Urological & Incontinence items not pictured.

Be Well.
Aaron Baker