Classroom First Aid Kit Checklist – Be Ready for the Unexpected

In a busy classroom, minor accidents are almost guaranteed. Whether it’s a scraped knee during recess, a nosebleed in the middle of math, or a student feeling faint, being prepared with a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for keeping students safe and cared for. Every classroom should have its own first aid kit—not just for emergencies, but for quick, everyday care. 

Classroom First Aid Kit Checklist

1. Bandages & Wound Care

• Assorted adhesive bandages (various sizes)

  
  
  
  

• Sterile gauze pads

  
  
  
  

• Adhesive medical tape

  
  
  
  

• Antiseptic wipes

  
  
  
  

• Antibiotic ointment (single-use packets)

  
  
  
  

• Non-stick wound dressings

  
  
  
  

• Liquid skin (optional for minor cuts)

  
  
  
  

2. Personal Protection

• Disposable gloves (nitrile or latex-free)

  
  
  
  

• Face masks

  
  
  
  

• CPR face shield or mask

  
  
  
  

• Hand sanitizer (alcohol-based)

  
  
  
  

3. Burn & Sting Relief

• Burn cream or gel

  
  
  
  

• Instant cold packs

  
  
  
  

• Sting relief pads or spray

  
  
  
  

• Hydrocortisone cream (for rashes or insect bites)

  
  
  
  

4. Minor Illness Relief

• Digital thermometer (no mercury)

  
  
  
  

• Tweezers (for splinters or ticks)

  
  
  
  

• Cotton swabs

  
  
  
  

• Eye wash solution or saline

  
  
  
  

• Alcohol pads

  
  
  
  

5. Emergency Supplies

• Emergency contact list (for each student)

  
  
  
  

• First aid manual or quick reference guide

  
  
  
  

• Flashlight and extra batteries

  
  
  
  

• Emergency whistle

  
  
  
  

• Medical alert cards (if any students have allergies or conditions)

  
  
  
  

6. Allergy & Asthma Support

• Epinephrine auto-injector (if authorized)

  
  
  
  

• Backup inhalers for asthma action plans (if provided by parents)

  
  
  
  

• Allergy action plans posted or included in the kit

  
  
  
  

Classroom Clean-Up Essentials

• Disinfectant wipes or spray

  
  
  
  

• Paper towels

  
  
  
  

• Biohazard disposal bag (for blood or bodily fluids)

  
  
  
  

• Zip-top plastic bags (for soiled items or ice pack storage)

  
  
  
  

Tips for Maintaining Your Classroom First Aid Kit

1. Check regularly: Set a reminder to inspect your kit monthly.

   
   
   
   

2. Restock often: Refill used items right away, especially bandages and gloves.

   
   
   
   

3. Keep it accessible: Store your kit in an easy-to-reach, labeled container.

   
   
   
   

4. Train substitutes: Let guest teachers know where the kit is and what it contains.

   
   
   
   

5. Know your limits: For anything beyond minor care, always call the school nurse or follow your school’s emergency procedures.

   
   
   
   

Conclusion 

A classroom first aid kit is a small investment that can make a big difference. It ensures that you, as an educator or caregiver, are ready to respond confidently and quickly when minor mishaps happen. When children feel safe and cared for, they learn better—and that starts with being prepared for the unexpected.