IBD Emergency Kit Preparation

A few weeks back, I wrote a blog post about internet videos highlighting the misfortunes of people who have “accidents.” In that post, I wrote about using my IBD “emergency” kit. There are a lot of things in that kit that I think patients can benefit from, so I want to share that with all of you now.

You may be thinking, “Why the heck do I even need an ‘emergency’ kit?!” Trust me when I say you will be glad you did in case you have an accident. Or if you find yourself without toilet paper somewhere. You will be very glad you have it.

What is an IBD “emergency” kit?

An IBD Emergency Kit is a bag of items to keep with you should you ever find yourself in a situation where you have an accident (i.e. poop your pants), without your medications, or simply needing toilet paper in a public restroom.

What do you keep in an emergency kit for Crohn's or UC?

1. A bag to carry items

First, obviously, you’ll need a bag or container of sorts to keep your emergency kit items in.

2. Extra pair of pants and underwear

This goes without saying, but in case you need explaining... this is for just in case you poop your pants. DO IT. Even if you think you don’t need to. I never thought I’d see the day where I pooped my pants, but I did. And it’s embarrassing.

3. A towel for any cleanup that may be needed

Also self-explanatory.

4. Medical Alert Bracelet and Restroom Access Card

You can find these on the internet. Just do a Google search.

5. Small bottles of water

This is for cleaning purposes and to take medicine if needed.

6. Medical examination gloves

These can be obtained in any medical section of the grocery store or pharmacy. I have these so I can handle any soiled items without too much of a problem.

7. Baking soda

Baking soda absorbs odors and liquids for easy cleanup! I sprinkle this into a trash bag where I place any soiled items.

8. "Cleansing Cloths" - aka adult wipes

A Godsend when you find yourself in a public restroom with no toilet paper! I’m telling you, these have saved me multiple times. You also might consider hand sanitizing wipes to wipe down the toilet seat before sitting down. I’m just saying...

9. Diaper Rash Cream - for an irritated bottom

My favorite thus far is Calmoseptine! But any good diaper cream will help you.

10. Trash bag

For any soiled items/trash.

11. Hand sanitizer

I have this just in case things get messy during cleanup.

12. Medications

In general, I'm not an advocate of anti-diarrheals - better out than in! - however, there are some situations (such as long car drives) where this may become necessary. You always want to check with your doctor before taking any medicines especially when you have a serious medical condition.

13. Adult Diapers

There is no shame in having to keep adult diapers with you. I have worn them on many occasions, especially when traveling long distances.

I hope you have found these helpful. Did I miss anything? What do you keep in your IBD Emergency Kit?