Bites & Stings

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.