Bites, Stings, and Splinters

Bites, Stings, and Splinters are all common occurrences when in the outdoors. None are typically that big of a deal under normal conditions, as long as the person who gets bit or stung isn't allergic to whatever got them.

Splinters are the easiest of the three to deal with. Ideally, the goal is to remove it:

1. Wash your hands, then the area around the splinter with soap and warm water.
2. Sterilize tweezers and a needle by putting the ends of each in boiling water, then wipe them off with a clean cotton ball or alcohol pad.
3. If the splinter is sticking through the skin, firmly grip the end with the tweezers. Pull slowly and gently at the same angle the splinter went in so it won't break.
4. If the tip of the splinter isn't sticking out, gently scrape the skin away from the splinter with the needle until there's an end to grab with the tweezers.
5. After the splinter is removed, wash the area again and cover it with a bandage.

The biggest worry with typical bites and stings is a severe allergic reaction. You should seek immediate medical attention of the person experiences any of the following shortly after begin bit/stung:

• hives
• abdominal cramps
• nausea and vomiting
• swelling of face, lips, or throat
• breathing problems
• shock

First aid for allergic reaction:

1. Ask someone to contact emergency services right away.
2. Ask the afflicted person whether they carry an epinephrine auto-injector. If they do, retrieve it for them.
3. Encourage them to remain calm, lie down quietly with their legs elevated, and stay still. If they start to vomit, turn them onto their side to allow the vomit to drain and prevent choking.
4. If they become unconscious and stop breathing, begin CPR. Continue it until medical help arrives.

First aid for spider/insect bites and stings:

1. If you suspect a black widow or brown recluse spider, contact emergency services.
2. If it is a sting and the insect’s stinger is still embedded in the skin, remove it by gently scraping a flat-edged object, such as a credit card, across their skin. Avoid using tweezers to remove the stinger, since squeezing it may release more venom.
3. Wash the area with soap and water.
4. Place a cold compress or ice pack on the area for about 10 minutes to help reduce pain and swelling. Wrap any ice or ice packs in a clean cloth to protect their skin.
5. Apply calamine lotion or a paste of baking soda and water to the injured area to help relieve itching and pain. Calamine lotion is a common antihistamine cream.

First aid for snake bites:

1. If you are sure it isn't venomous, wash the area and treat like a puncture wound.
2. If maybe poisonous, get medical help immediately. And:
3. Encourage them to remain calm, lie down quietly, and stay still. Movement can cause the venom to spread through their body more quickly.
4. Remove tight jewelry or clothing around the site of the bite, since swelling may occur.
5. If they develop pale and clammy skin, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, or increased heart rate, treat them for shock. Give them a blanket or extra layer of clothing to stay warm.
6. If you can do so safely, take a description or picture of the snake that bit them. This can help medical professionals identify the snake and an appropriate course of treatment.