BITES AND STINGS

Bites and stings are potentially dangerous because:

The venom injected is poisonous.

Casualty is allergic to some insects.

BITES AND STINGS

First Aid Priorities:

Make sure you are safe.

Remove casualty from danger.

Treat wound and minimise infection.

Seek medical attention if necessary.

Note the time and nature of the injury.

Identify the attacking creature if possible.

ANIMAL BITES

Bites from sharp, pointed teeth cause:

Deep puncture wounds that can carry germs far into the tissues.

Infection.

Needs prompt first aid and medical attention.

ANIMAL BITES

Treatment for Serious Wounds:

Control bleeding.

Apply direct pressure.

Raise the injured part.

ANIMAL BITESTreatment for Serious Wounds:

Wash the wound thoroughly with warm water.

Cover wound with sterile dressing.

Bandage to hold dressing firmly.

Send casualty to hospital.

ANIMAL BITESTreatment for Superficial Wounds:

Pat the wound dry with clean gauze swabs and cover with an adhesive dressing or a small sterile dressing..

Advise the casualty to see a doctor in case inoculation is needed.

SNAKE BITES

Recognition:

A pair of puncture marks.

Breathing difficulties.

Nausea and/or vomiting.

Severe pain at the site of the bite

Redness and swelling around the bite.

Blurred or double vision.

Increased salivation and sweating.

SNAKE BITES

Treatment:

DO NOT cut or suck the wound.

Lay the casualty down.

Tell her to keep calm and still.

Keep heart above wounded part.

Wash the wound and pat dry with clean swabs.

Lightly compress above the wound with a roller bandage.

Immobilise the injury.

Call for an Ambulance.

INSECT STINGS

Recognition:

Pain.

Mild swelling.

Soreness.

Some people are allergic to stings and rapidly develop anaphylactic shock.

Multiple stings can also be dangerous.

Stings in the mouth or throat are serious, swelling can obstruct the airway.

INSECT STINGS

Treatment (Sting in the skin):

If the sting is still in the wound, pluck it out firmly with fine tweezers.

Apply a cold compress to relieve pain and minimise swelling.

Advise the casualty to see doctor if the pain and swelling persist.

INSECT STINGS

Treatment (Sting in the mouth):

Give the casualty ice to suck or cold water to sip,

to minimise the swelling.

Reassure the casualty.

Call for an Ambulance.