Bites & Stings
I. Animal bites
Animal bites may result in puncture wounds or tearing of the flesh / skin. There is a high risk of infection, if the wound is not treated properly. Serious wounds may require medical attention.
- Superficial bites
- If any foreign particle / body is sticking to the skin, remove it by rinsing the area with clean water for a few minutes.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and soap.
- Dry the area properly and cover with an adhesive or sterile dressing.
- Advise the victim to consult his / her doctor.
- Serious wounds
- Try to control bleeding by raising the affected area or by applying direct pressure with a clean cloth.
- Cover the wound with a clean cloth or a sterile dressing.
- Call for medical help.
- Insect stings
- If the sting is present on the skin, remove it with the help of tweezers.
- Clean the affected area with warm water and soap.
- Remove any jewelry or other items as the affected area may swell.
- Cover the area with a moist dressing or apply cold compress to reduce the swelling.
- Arrange for medical help.
- Marine animal bites or stings : Many marine creatures can cause injury through bites or stings. These may include jellyfish, scorpion fish, sea urchins, sea anemone, sharks, eel, Portuguese man – of – war etc.
First Aid
- Remove any adhering stings or tentacles.
- Clean the affected area with water.
- Pour alcohol or vinegar over the affected area to neutralize the venom.
- If there is severe injury or the victim suffers from shock, arrange for medical help immediately.
- If the injury is serious, take the victim to a doctor.
II. Snake bites
Poisonous snake bites may include : cobra, rattlesnake, coral snake, copperhead etc.
Symptoms include :
- Paired puncture marks.
- Severe pain.
- Redness in the affected area.
- Swelling.
- Numbness and tingling sensation.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Weakness.
- Blurred vision.
- Burning.
- Fainting.
- Rapid pulse.
- Convulsions.
First Aid
- Make the victim calm and restrict movement.
- The affected area should be kept below the level of heart to restrict the flow of venom.
- Remove any jewelry or other items from that area as the area may swell up.
- Support the injured area with broad bandages.
- Arrange for medical help immediately.
- If a limb is affected, apply a tourniquet some distance above the site of bite.