This post was written by Stacie Housholder RN, MSN, FNP-C, Parkview Virtual Health, Parkview OnDemand.
Whether you’re planning a weeklong vacation or packing for a business trip, it’s important to prepare for an unexpected (and unwanted) scenario: getting sick! Packing can be stressful. In an effort to simplify the process, here is a list of suggestions for items you can toss into your suitcase to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy or ready for relief if sickness strikes.
Add the app – Before you hit the road or take to the skies, download the Parkview OnDemand app on your smartphone. This provides you access to trusted providers 24/7 anywhere in the United States when unexpected illness or injury gets you down.
Have a plan – If you have a disease, such as diabetes, that requires supplies and medication management, make sure you keep the necessary medical items in close proximity and communicate your condition to others, in case you require assistance.
Make sure your products are still effective – Before you pack them, check the expiration dates on sprays, such as sunscreen. Old sunscreen and other products with active ingredients tend to be less potent or effective after their “best by” date lapses.
Organize your medications – Make sure that, before you pack anything else, you lay out all of your medications. If you have several, you might want to get a pill box and organize them for the days you are traveling. This is a great option for saving space as well, as you won’t have to pack all of those bottles. You can get travel-sized bottles for your over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers.
Prepare for windy roads and rough waters – Just to be safe, plan to pack motion sickness and anti-diarrheal medications. These over-the-counter pills also come in travel-sized bottles, so they can go with you wherever the journey takes you.
Record your Rx – It’s important to carry an up-to-date medication card that lists all of the medications and dosages you’re currently taking, in case a medical professional needs that information in an emergency.
Know the lay of the land – Make sure you familiarize yourself with the closest pharmacy, walk-in clinic and emergency room in case you need these services while you’re traveling.
A little preparation can go a long way when you’re under the weather. Happy travels!
