When did you last take inventory of your medicine cabinet and first aid kit? It's one of those things that often gets pushed to the back of your mind, but having a well-stocked home pharmacy can make a huge difference if someone in the household falls ill or is injured. With that in mind, let's talk about some of the essential items you should pick up from your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, to make sure you are prepared for illness throughout flu season.

Fever, Headache, and Pain Relief

Let's start simple with medication to ease fever, headaches, and general pain. You can pick up over-the-counter medications to keep on hand for this purpose. If you are on any prescription medications, you may need to consult a doctor regarding what you can take, but as a general rule, you should pick up the following items from your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, to stock your home pharmacy.

  • Aspirin - Aspirin not only acts as a painkiller but is also an excellent fever reducer. However, it is essential to note that it interferes with blood clotting, so it cannot be taken if you take blood thinners. It is also unsuitable for children and teenagers.
  • Acetaminophen - If you need to avoid Aspirin, Acetaminophen can be a great alternative to reduce fever and can also be given in a pediatric dose. Several brands are available at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, but Tylenol is likely the one you recognize the most.
  • Ibuprofen or Naproxen - Adding a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to your home pharmacy kit will help relieve pain. Common brands of ibuprofen you might see at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, include Advil and Motrin, while Naproxen may be better known as Aleve or Naprosyn.
  • Thermometer - Adding a good quality digital thermometer to help monitor fever is wise. A rectal thermometer is more accurate if you have a baby at home. You can pick up both types at your local pharmacy in Powell, TN.

Cold and Flu Relief

When you have a cold or flu, the last thing you want to have to do is get dressed and go shopping! With flu season upon us, why not stock up now so that you are prepared when illness strikes? A trip to your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, will help you restock your medicine cabinet at home.

  • Decongestants - Most popular brand-name decongestants contain either pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine. It is important to note that products with pseudoephedrine are kept locked behind the counter, and you will need to present identification to purchase them.
  • Cough Medicine - Choosing two different types of cough medicine on hand is a good idea—one for dry, hacking coughs and one for a mucus-producing cough. Ask your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, for recommendations.
  • Rehydration Sachets - It's easy to get dehydrated when you are unwell. Ask your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, to recommend rehydration sachets you can add to your first aid box.

First Aid Items

First Aid ItemsA well-prepared home first aid kit can be invaluable in handling minor injuries and medical emergencies. Here's a list of essential items from your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, to include:

  • 1. Bandages and Dressings
    • Assorted sterile gauze pads
    • Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
    • Sterile non-stick dressings or pads
    • Triangular bandages for slings
  • Wound Cleaning and Antiseptics
    • Antiseptic wipes or solution (e.g., hydrogen peroxide)
    • Alcohol pads or wipes
    • Mild soap and a small bottle of water for wound cleaning
  • Adhesive Tape and Fasteners
    • Medical adhesive tape
    • Elastic bandages or wraps
  • Scissors and Tweezers
    • Small, sharp scissors
    • Fine-tipped tweezers for removing splinters or ticks
  • Respiratory Supplies
    • Asthma inhaler (if applicable)
    • Spare spacer (if using inhaler)
    • Nebulizer (if prescribed)
  • Eye Care
    • Sterile eye wash solution or sterile saline for rinsing eyes
    • Eye patches or cups
  • Miscellaneous
    • Small flashlight with extra batteries

Remember to periodically check and replenish expired or used items to ensure your first aid kit is always ready for use. Additionally, it's crucial to keep the kit in an accessible, known location, away from young children, and to educate family members on its contents and proper usage.

General Items

There are also a number of other over-the-counter medications that you can purchase from your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, as a precaution in case they are needed. This list is not exhaustive, but some of the most useful items may include:

  • Calamine Lotion - Soothes itching from rashes and bites and helps dry up weeping rashes such as poison ivy and chicken pox.
  • Antihistamine Cream - Another option to relieve intense itching
  • Cortisone - If the items above are not cutting through the itch, 1% cortisone ointment is an option.
  • Heartburn Medication - Tums or Rolaids can offer some relief from heartburn by helping neutralize stomach acid.
  • Antihistamine Tablets - If you have allergy sufferers in the household, keep some antihistamines like Benadryl on hand.
  • Loperamide - It's a good idea to keep some diarrhea treatment like Loperamide (Imodium) on hand in an emergency!

Now that you have an idea of some of the things you should stock your home pharmacy with to be prepared for sickness and minor injuries, it's time to visit your local pharmacy in Powell, TN, for a shopping trip!

Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966

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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!

hello@vaughnpharmacy.com

(865) 947-1581