Back to: Basic First Aid Senior Living Professionals
Accidents from bites and stings can happen at home, work, or even while you are traveling. It is important to understand the various types of bites and stings and what First Aid care should be provided.
Causes: Animal and human bites, bee, wasp stings, insect (ant), spider and snake bites, jellyfish sting, scorpion bites and sticks, ticks.
Signs and Symptoms: Abdominal pain, feeling generally unwell, joint pain, lack of appetite, muscle spasms, puncture marks on the skin, rash, headache and fever.
Animal and Human Bites:
A bite that punctures the skin can cause bleeding and lead to an infection. Bites that do not break the skin may require minor First Aid. It is important to understand that the reaction to a punctured bite will vary depending on the germs that were in the biter’s mouth/saliva.
If you notice the animal acting strangely, be sure to keep your distance. Some animals may carry rabies and require immediate medical attention. (dog, cat, skunk, bat, raccoon, or other wild animals).
Snake Bite:
Poisonous snakes release venom when they bite. You should always assume that a snake is poisonous if you are not able to tell from the bite mark. Symptoms of a poisonous snakebite can include pain, swelling near the bite area, nausea, vomiting and weakness.
Stings: Bee, Wasp, Spider, Scorpion, Insect:
Unless a person is allergic to the source of the sting, a person may experience a minor reaction. Stings usually lead to itching, swelling and minor pain.
Some stings may be more dangerous, if the source is poisonous. In these instances a person will experience more severe symptoms such as: fever, severe pain, seizures, vomiting, breathing problems and may even stop breathing.
Bees are the only insects that leave behind their stingers. You should look for the stinger and remove it.