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First Aid Delivery or Pickup

First Aid Delivery or Pickup

The Instacart buying guide to first aid

When it comes to first aid kits, you can never be too prepared. From bandages and gauze to heating pads and ice packs, it's essential to have first aid supplies on hand in case of an injury or emergency. When you order first aid kits and supplies through Instacart, you can get what you need via same-day delivery.

First Aid Near Me

Buy your favorite First Aid online with Instacart. Order Hand Sanitizer and Hand Wipes, First Aid Kits, Ice Packs, and more from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.

FAQs about first aid

If you or a family member gets injured, it's easy to assume that a few basic adhesive bandages can dress any wound. However, in an emergency, it's best to have a complete selection of first aid supplies on hand. A first aid kit should include these essential items:
  • Adhesive bandages
  • Gauze roll
  • Gauze pads
  • Adhesive cloth tape
  • Antibiotic ointment, preferably in individual packets
  • Antiseptic wipes, preferably in individual packets
  • Hydrocortisone ointment, preferably in individual packets
  • Cold compress
  • Thermometer
  • Tweezers
  • Disposable gloves, preferably non-latex
Although one first aid kit might seem like enough, it's important to have one on hand no matter where you are. That's why it's helpful to keep one at home and one in the car or in other places where you spend a lot of time.

In many cases, buying a ready-made first aid kit saves you time and helps you avoid having to choose individual items. However, premade first aid kits may not include items that meet your family's unique needs or feature your preferred brands.

If you'd rather create your own, use the list of essential items above to build your kit. Then add extra items that you anticipate needing, such as more bandages, pain relievers, or cooling spray you can use in an emergency.

Then choose a plastic or metal container to store your first aid kit. Select a container that seals completely to keep out moisture and dirt and ensure the supplies last longer.

To choose the best bandage, you have to evaluate the size, severity, and location of the injury. Follow this guide to select the right bandage:
  • Adhesive Bandages: These standard bandages can protect a wide range of wounds. Keep a selection of sizes on hand, so you always have the right one for the job.
  • Butterfly Bandages: These closure strips can replace stitches in an emergency. They work best for closing small cuts and preventing them from reopening, but they're less ideal for large wounds.
  • Hydrocolloid Bandages: These bandages add moisture to the injured area, establishing a better healing environment for wounds. Many Hydrocolloid bandages are designed for multi-day wear and don't require frequent changes.
  • Antiseptic Bandages: Although you can always apply antiseptic separately, some bandages include this healing substance. These bandages can help save you a step and can keep out harmful germs and infections.

If you or your family members sustain an injury or experience aches and pains, it's normal to want to treat the issue right away. Before you reach for the nearest heating pad or ice pack, however, it's important to know what type of application to use in each situation. In some cases, heat is essential, and in others, cold is better for preventing additional damage. In still other cases, complete treatment requires both applications.

Follow these rules of thumb to decide whether you should use a hot or cold treatment:
  • Heating Pads: Use when you want to treat stiff muscles and joints, especially when you have time for longer applications. Avoid using heat therapy near areas of swelling.
  • Ice Packs: Apply when you want to limit swelling and inflammation, such as after an injury. Avoid using cold therapy on stiff muscles or inflexible joints or for people with poor circulation.

When you need first aid supplies, you might automatically assume that the drugstore is the best place to stock up. Naturally, pharmacies and drugstores typically have a full range of bandages, antiseptics, heating pads, and other essentials.

However, the pharmacy isn't the only place to get the supplies you need. Many grocery stores and warehouse clubs have large inventories of first aid supplies, too. In a pinch, specialty stores and convenience stores may also have what you need.

When you order through Instacart, it's easy to add bandages and other first-aid needs to your grocery, warehouse club, or convenience store list. Because Instacart offers delivery in as little as 2 hours, you can save time and get what you need easily.