The Importance Of Knowing First Aid When Abroad

For many of us, expert medical care is usually only a phone call or a short trip to the local hospital away. However, all this can change if you take a trip abroad. Whether you travel for business or pleasure, spending time in other countries can put your health at greater risk. With this in mind, you might want to brush up on your first aid skills before you head off on your next far flung adventure.

It’s now easy to stock up on suitable medical supplies. Whether you’re after a cohesive bandage, antibacterial wipes, wound closures, sterile dressings or anything else to take overseas, you won’t struggle to find the relevant products. Of course, as well as having supplies like these, you will need the knowledge and skills to be able to use them, and the following guide explains exactly why.

A lack of expert help

Depending on the destination you’re heading to, you might have limited or no access to expert medical help. You’re particularly vulnerable if you travel somewhere that has only basic healthcare provisions in place, or if you venture to remote locations away from towns and cities. Not being able to rely on the emergency services if you or someone you are with falls ill or suffers an injury can be a scary feeling. You have only yourself to rely on, and your actions could prove vital. Depending on the medical issue you’re dealing with, you could help to limit pain and suffering, reduce the risk of infection or even save a life.

Before you set off on trips away from home, always research the medical assistance on offer in your chosen destination. This will ensure you have a clear idea of what to expect if you find yourself embroiled in a medical emergency.

A range of risks

As well as having to cope with reduced medical assistance, you might face greater risks to your well-being while you’re abroad. For example, perhaps you are planning to take part in potentially dangerous activities, like skiing, scuba diving or mountain biking. Depending on where you’re going, insect or animal bites might pose a risk as well.

Meanwhile, travellers’ diarrhoea (TD) affects many of those who venture abroad for work or on holiday. Indeed, between 20 and 60 percent of overseas travelers are thought to suffer this sickness, and the danger is especially high in countries where sanitation levels are poor. Contracted through contaminated food and water, TD can range from mild to severe. If you think you may be at risk of contracting it while you’re away from home, it’s wise to include some rehydration sachets in your first aid kit.

Peace of mind

Even if you’re lucky enough not to have to deal with first aid emergencies when you’re abroad, it’s beneficial to have the relevant skills and resources. After all, knowing that you’re equipped and able to deal with health problems if and when they arise can boost your peace of mind and help you to relax while you’re overseas.

This is a sponsored post by Lloyd’s Pharmacy