1. Emergency Health Care (CAMS 231) Unit 11 Bites & Stings

2. Insect Bites & Stings Most bites or stings, whether from mosquitoes, flies, bees, or wasps, result in a mild reaction to the venom or other protein that the insect injects into one's body. This can result in redness, minor swelling, pain, and itching at the site of the bite or sting.

3. Some people develop a severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic reaction) to an insect sting, often from a bee or wasp. This reaction may result in: o abdominal cramps o nausea and vomiting o swelling of the face, lips or throat o hives o breathing problems o shock Insect Bites & Stings

4. If the victim begins experiencing these symptoms shortly after an insect bite or sting, call emergency as soon as possible. Anaphylactic reaction can be life- threatening if not treated promptly. Insect Bites & Stings

5. A client who had a severe reaction to an insect sting, should request a medication called epinephrine. Epinephrine is injected into the muscle through an “auto injector.” It acts quickly on the body to raise blood pressure, stimulate heart, and improve swelling and breathing. It should be carried with him at all times, but especially when outdoors. Insect Bites & Stings

6. First Aid Care: o If the stinger is still in the skin, remove it by gently scraping across the skin with a flat- edged object like a credit card. o Wash the area with soap and water. Insect Bites & Stings

7. First Aid Care: o Place a cold compress or an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth to protect the skin) on the sting or bite for about 10 minutes to reduce pain and swelling. o Apply calamine lotion, an antihistamine cream, or a paste of baking soda and water to the area several times a day until itching and pain are resolved. Insect Bites & Stings

8. First Aid Care: If There Are Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction: o Ask someone to call for emergency care. o Ask the person whether he or she carries an epinephrine injector, and if so, assist him or her to use it according to label directions. o Help the person to remain calm and lie quietly with the legs elevated. If vomiting occurs, turn the person onto his or her side to prevent choking. Do not give them anything to drink. o If the person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, begin CPR, and continue until medical help arrives. Insect Bites & Stings

9. Spiders Most spider bites are harmless. Several hours to a day after the bite, you may notice symptoms similar to an insect sting or bite, such as redness, swelling, pain, or itching.

10. First Aid Care: o First aid care for most spider bites is similar to that of insect bites and stings. o Wash the area with soap and water. o Place a cold compress or an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth to protect the skin) on the sting or bite for about 10 minutes to reduce pain and swelling. o Apply calamine lotion, an antihistamine cream, or a paste of baking soda and water to the area several times a day until itching and pain are resolved. Spiders

11. First Aid Care: o If severe reaction occur: Clean the skin with soap and water. Help the person remain calm to reduce the spread of venom. Do NOT apply a tourniquet. Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to protect the skin. Get the victim to medical care as soon as possible. Spiders

12. Snakes While many snakes are harmless, there are a few common species that can be poisonous and even deadly. Symptoms of a poisonous snake bite vary depending upon the snake, but can include: o Weakness o Dizziness o Fainting o Convulsions o Nausea o Vomiting o Diarrhea o Loss of muscle coordination o Rapid pulse o Swelling in the area of the bite

13. A poisonous snake bite is a medical emergency. Quick treatment can minimize symptoms and aid in recovery. Snakes

14. First Aid Care: o Call medical help immediately. o Help the person to remain calm and lie quietly. Movement can spread the venom more rapidly, so try to keep the body still, especially in the bite area. o Do not raise the bitten area above the level of the heart. o Remove constricting jewelry or clothing around the bite area, as swelling may occur. Snakes

15. First Aid Care: If there are symptoms of shock, such as dizziness, weakness, pale and clammy skin, shortness of breath,and increased heart rate, have the person lie quietly with his or her feet elevated about 12 inches. Cover him or her with a blanket to maintain body warmth. Snakes

16. First Aid Care: o Steps NOT to Take: Do not endanger yourself by trying to capture the snake. Do not cut or suck the area of the snake bite. Do not wash the snake bite (residual venom at the bite area can help medical personnel to identify the type of snake for proper treatment). Do not apply cold to the bite. Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, or any pain medication. Snakes