How to Use the Bad Day Blowout Kit

How to Use the Bad Day Blowout Kit

Sometimes, it really is a bad day. Whether you’re on a backcountry trail, at the range, or just driving home from work, medical emergencies can escalate fast. The Bad Day Blowout Kit from MPA is designed for just that kind of day—when seconds count and you need more than just a Band-Aid. This isn’t just a trauma kit for show. It’s for bleeding control, airway management, minor wounds, and the less-sexy-but-way-more-common daily injuries.

This post breaks down how to use every key item in your kit—with real-world application and a little practicality. No jargon, no fluff—just what to do when things go sideways.

Life-Threat Management

Tourniquet (CAT-7 CoTCCC Approved)

Use for: Life-threatening bleeding from arms or legs
How-to guide

  1. Expose the injury (cut clothing away).
  2. Place 2-3 inches above the wound, not on a joint.
  3. Pull tight and crank until bleeding stops and there’s no pulse below the tourniquet.
  4. Lock it in place and note the time.

If one doesn’t do the job, apply a second one side-by-side.

Compressed Gauze (x2)

Use for: Wound packing and general bleeding control
Learn more

  1. Identify the source of bleeding.
  2. Apply direct pressure.
  3. Pack gauze firmly into the wound.
  4. Maintain constant pressure for at least 5 minutes.

No need for hemostatic gauze. This stuff works just fine.

Elastic Bandages (x2)

Use for: Securing dressings, sprains, or pressure wraps
Elastic Bandage Info

  1. Use to wrap over packed wounds or secure gauze.
  2. Also great for stabilizing sprains (wrist, ankle).
  3. Don’t cut off circulation—watch for cold fingers or toes.

Emergency Blanket

Use for: Preventing shock and exposure
More info

  1. Unfold and gently wrap around the casualty after bleeding is under control.
  2. Protects against hypothermia and wind.

Chest Seals (Pair)

Use for: Penetrating chest trauma (sucking chest wounds)
How-to

  1. Wipe the wound dry.
  2. Place the seal over the hole, covering entry and exit if both exist.
  3. These are vented seals—no need to burp them manually.

Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA)

Use for: Maintaining an open airway when someone’s unconscious but breathing
Usage guide

  1. Apply lube (or use spit in a pinch).
  2. Insert gently into the nostril, bevel facing the septum.
  3. Advance until resistance is met—it should sit snug.

If the casualty gags or resists, remove it.

Trauma Shears

Use for: Cutting clothing, bandages, or gear

Keep these handy—they make exposing injuries way faster and safer than a pocketknife.

Bandaging – The Mundane (But Frequent) Injuries

Not every emergency is dramatic. Sometimes it’s a scraped knee or a nasty finger cut.

  • 15x Adhesive Strip Bandages: Your standard Band-Aids
  • 3x Fingertip Bandages: Stay on better for awkward spots
  • 3x Knuckle Bandages: Great for joints
  • 3x Patch & Spot Bandages: Good for blisters or tiny cuts
  • 5x Butterfly Closures: Help close clean cuts to reduce scarring
  • 2x Elastic Bandages: Already covered above
  • 1x Triangular Bandage (Cravat): Sling, wrap, head dressing, or just a backup towel

Use these for minor cuts, scrapes, and minor abrasions—just clean the area and slap one on.

Topicals – Keeping Infection Away

Every minor wound deserves some care too.

  • Antibiotic Ointment: Basic germ-fighting goop
  • First Aid & Burn Cream: Combo relief for minor burns and skin irritation
  • Hydrocortisone Cream: Great for bug bites or allergic rashes
  • Alcohol Pads: Clean the area before treating (will sting!)
  • Antiseptic Wipes: A little gentler than alcohol pads
  • Povidone Iodine Wipes: Antimicrobial prep for deeper wounds

Clean first, then apply your cream or ointment, then bandage. Easy.

Real Talk on Gloves

You’ll notice we didn’t include gloves. You’re unlikely to get infected from helping someone unless you have an open cut—and honestly, eye splashes are more of a risk. Still, if gloves make you feel better or you’re working on strangers, toss a pair in.

Wrapping It Up

The Bad Day Blowout Kit is meant to be used. It’s built for when you’re on your own and help is far away. From gaping leg wounds to annoying bug bites, this kit gives you what you need to stop the bleeding, keep breathing, and handle the mundane.

Don’t just carry it. Know it. Practice with it. Use it.

Got questions about how to use something? Check out our full component library at MPA Supply.