Page 1213 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

from the skin, and the skin is
thoroughly irrigated; saline irrigations
are done for eye exposure.
d. The involved extremity is elevated and
immobilized to reduce pain and
swelling.
e. Antihistamines and topical or systemic
corticosteroids may be prescribed;
tetanus prophylaxis is necessary.
B. Scorpion stings
1. Scorpions inject venom into the victim through a
stinging apparatus on their tail.
2. Most stings cause local pain, inflammation, and mild
systemic reactions that are treated with analgesics,
wound care, and supportive treatment.
3. The bark scorpion can inflict a severe and potentially
fatal systemic response, especially in children and the
elderly; the venom is neurotoxic; the victim should be
taken to the emergency department immediately (an
antivenom is administered for bark scorpion bites).
C. Bees and wasps
1. Stings usually cause a wheal and flare reaction.
2. Emergency care involves quick removal of the stinger
and application of an ice pack.
3. The stinger is removed by gently scraping or brushing
it off with the edge of a needle or similar object;
tweezers are not used because there is a risk of
pinching the venom sac.
4. If the victim is allergic to the venom of a bee or wasp,
a severe allergic response can occur (hives, pruritus,
swelling of the lips and tongue) that can progress to
life-threatening anaphylaxis; immediate emergency
care is required.
5. Individuals who are allergic should carry an
epinephrine autoinjector for self-administration of
intramuscular epinephrine if a bee or wasp sting
occurs. After use of the epinephrine autoinjector, the
individual should seek emergency medical attention.
Persons should have 2 injectors available and obtain a
replacement as soon as possible.
D. Snake bites
1. Some snakes are venomous and can cause a serious
systemic reaction in the victim.
2. The victim should be immediately moved to a safe
area away from the snake and should rest to decrease
venom circulation; the extremity is immobilized and
kept below the level of the heart.
3. Constricting clothing and jewelry are removed before

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