In times of war, conflict, or disaster, access to medical professionals may be impossible. Hospitals may be closed, ambulances may not respond, and pharmacies may run out of supplies. Knowing how to treat injuries and illnesses on your own can mean the difference between life and death.
This guide covers basic survival medicine techniques, including how to treat wounds, infections, dehydration, and common medical emergencies when no doctor is available. Having these skills will help you protect yourself and your loved ones in any crisis.
Step 1: Building a Basic Survival Medical Kit
Having the right supplies is the first step in survival medicine. You can’t treat injuries without the proper tools.
Essential First Aid Supplies
- Sterile gauze and bandages – For covering wounds and preventing infection.
- Adhesive tape – To secure bandages in place.
- Antiseptic wipes or alcohol – To clean wounds and prevent infection.
- Tweezers – For removing splinters, glass, or debris from wounds.
- Scissors – For cutting bandages, clothing, or medical tape.
- Disposable gloves – To prevent infection when treating wounds.
- Painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin) – For reducing pain and inflammation.
- Antibiotic ointment (if available) – To apply to wounds and prevent bacterial infections.
- Burn cream or aloe vera gel – To treat burns and skin irritation.
- Hydrocortisone cream – For rashes, insect bites, and allergic reactions.
- Antihistamines – To treat allergic reactions or severe itching.
- Thermometer – To monitor fever and infections.
- Medical mask – To reduce the risk of infection from airborne illnesses.
- Cotton balls and swabs – For cleaning wounds and applying medication.
- Emergency blankets – To prevent hypothermia in injured individuals.
- Super glue or medical glue – Can be used for sealing small cuts when stitches aren’t possible.
- Sewing needle and strong thread (or suture kit) – For emergency wound closure.
- Duct tape – Can be used in emergencies to secure bandages or even splint injuries.
- Activated charcoal – Can help in cases of poisoning if professional care isn’t available.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not store liquids that expire quickly—use dry tablets whenever possible.
- Avoid using expired medicine unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not pack items you don’t know how to use—learn basic medical skills before an emergency happens.
Step 2: How to Treat Wounds and Bleeding
In a survival situation, even a small wound can become deadly if it gets infected. Proper wound care is essential.
How to Stop Heavy Bleeding
- Apply direct pressure – Use a clean cloth or sterile gauze to press on the wound.
- Elevate the injured limb – This helps slow blood loss.
- Apply a tourniquet if bleeding doesn’t stop – Tie a belt, rope, or cloth above the wound (between the wound and the heart) and tighten.
- Secure the wound with a bandage – Once bleeding is controlled, wrap the wound tightly but not too tight to cut off circulation.
- Watch for signs of infection – Redness, swelling, pus, or a foul smell may indicate infection.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not remove an embedded object (like a knife or glass)—stabilize it and bandage around it.
- Avoid using dirty rags or clothing—this can introduce bacteria and cause infections.
- Do not apply alcohol or hydrogen peroxide directly into deep wounds—it kills tissue and slows healing.
Step 3: Dealing with Broken Bones and Fractures
If someone breaks a bone, moving them incorrectly can cause permanent damage. You need to stabilize the injury immediately.
How to Handle a Fracture
- Keep the injured person still – Moving a broken bone can cause more harm.
- Immobilize the limb – Use sticks, boards, or rolled-up clothing to create a splint.
- Secure the splint – Tie it in place with strips of fabric, but not too tight.
- Apply ice if available – This helps reduce swelling.
- Elevate the limb if possible – To prevent excessive swelling.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not try to realign the bone—this requires medical training.
- Avoid moving the person unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not wrap the splint too tightly—this can cut off circulation.
Step 4: Recognizing and Treating Infections
Without antibiotics, infections can become deadly in survival situations.
How to Treat an Infection
- Clean the wound immediately with clean water and antiseptic.
- Apply antibiotic ointment (if available) and cover with a sterile bandage.
- Change bandages daily and watch for signs of worsening infection (red streaks, pus, fever).
- Boost immunity by ensuring the person stays hydrated and well-fed.
- Use natural antiseptics (if no medicine is available):
- Honey – Has antibacterial properties and can be applied to wounds.
- Garlic – A natural antibiotic when eaten raw.
- Saltwater solution – Can be used to clean wounds.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not ignore a fever—this could indicate a severe infection spreading in the body.
- Do not reuse dirty bandages—this increases infection risk.
- Do not wait too long to act—infections spread quickly and can be fatal.
Step 5: Managing Shock and Dehydration
Shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body isn’t getting enough blood flow. It can happen due to severe injury, infection, or extreme stress.
How to Treat Shock
- Lay the person down – Keep them on their back with legs slightly elevated.
- Keep them warm – Use blankets, jackets, or any available covering.
- Offer small sips of water if they are conscious and alert.
- Reassure them and keep them calm – Anxiety makes shock worse.
What NOT to Do:
- Do not give food or drinks to an unconscious person—this can cause choking.
- Avoid moving them unnecessarily—shock victims need to remain still.
- Do not leave them alone—monitor them closely for changes in breathing or consciousness.
Conclusion: Be Ready to Act
In a crisis, basic medical skills can save lives. When professional medical help isn’t available, your ability to treat wounds, infections, and common injuries will determine survival.
Final Recommendations:
- Build a strong first aid kit and keep it well-stocked.
- Learn essential survival medicine skills now—don’t wait until an emergency happens.
- Train yourself and others—even basic knowledge can make a difference.
- Stay calm in medical emergencies—panic leads to mistakes.
Survival medicine is about being prepared. The more you learn now, the better your chances of protecting yourself and others when no doctor is available.
