Life can change in an instant. One moment, you’re bandaging a scraped knee; the next, you’re navigating an unexpected hospital admission. Although every medical emergency can’t be predicted, we can prepare for them—physically, mentally, and logistically.
A dear friend from Kansas is having a rough go in intensive care and needs prayers today. Along with her, the photographer from our wedding was airlifted to the hospital last night in respiratory distress or something worse. Both dear friends were healthy just days ago. Some horrible viruses are wreaking havoc on the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada. Stealth and potentially lethal, one never knows when they’ll strike close to home.
it’s important that somewhere in your wallet, you carry the phone number of the person in charge of making your medical decisions if you are unable. Good job if you’ve already made medical directives and organized last wishes. In this crazy world, one thing is certain. The unexpected happens.
Whether it’s a minor cut, a sudden illness, or a long hospital stay, here’s how to be ready when your health or that of someone you love is on the line.
A solid first aid kit is your frontline defense against everyday medical issues customized to fit your household’s needs. This kit is really important when living alone. There is nothing worse than needing to run to the store when sick or injured. Be sure to check all expiration dates on your supplies, replenishing and replacing as needed.
Essentials:
- Adhesive bandages (various sizes)
- Sterile gauze and medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes or solution
- Tweezers and small scissors
- Digital thermometer
- Pain relievers (check expiration dates)
- Allergy meds (in our case, an EpiPen for bee stings reactions)
- Anti-nausea and antidiarrheal meds
- Mucinex (both pills and liquid)
- Electrolyte packets or oral rehydration salts
When things go wrong, information saves time and lives. Keep both digital and printed records of:
- Medical history
- Allergies and medications
- Emergency contacts
- Health insurance cards
- A copy of your ID
- Advance directives or healthcare proxies, if applicable
- Next of Kin phone name, relationship, and phone number.
Use a folder, waterproof bag, or medical binder to keep things accessible. There are even apps that let you store and share this information securely. If possible, keep a copy in your purse.
If you need to isolate during a contagious illness it helps to have a dedicated “quarantine zone”.
Consider having on hand:
- Gloves and masks
- Disinfectants and cleaning supplies
- Waste bags and a safe sharps container
- Pulse oximeter and blood pressure cuff
- Extra bedding and towels
- A notepad to track symptoms or medications
Medical emergencies often come with zero warning. A hospital go-bag can ease the confusion. Pack a bag with a change of clothing, underwear, toiletries, and pajamas. If you’re like me, you’ll throw in an extra blanket.
Medical disasters don’t just hurt physically but shake a sense of control. Part of preparation is emotional resilience.
- Know your support network (friends, neighbors, therapists)
- Talk about your wishes with family
- Practice calming techniques (breathing, grounding)
- Accept that asking for help shows strength, not weakness
Being mentally prepared doesn’t mean expecting the worst, but allows one to stay grounded when the worst happens. Preparing for medical disasters is about self-respect and responsibility. Whether it’s a scraped elbow or a week in the ICU, focus on healing, not the small stuff.
You may never need that backup oxygen meter or printed medical record. But if you do, you’ll be glad you were ready.
Start today. Start small. Just start.
More tomorrow