Bites and Stings
The venom from wasps and bees is not particularly toxic and in most cases leads to no more than some pain and swelling. However if the insect is swallowed and someone is stung at the base of the tongue or the back of the throat, the area can swell quite rapidly and close the airway resulting in breathing difficulties. If the victim is allergic to the sting, a life threatening allergic reaction might be the result.
If someone receives a bee sting, remove the sting by scraping sideways with a sharp edge taking care not to squeeze the venom sac. Then apply an ice pack for pain relief. If the casualty has a history of allergy to bites or shows signs of a serious allergic reaction, apply pressure immobilisation by using a heavy duty bandage and starting at the tip of the limb, work your way up to the end of the limb. Call 000. If a casualty suffers a sting to the throat, apply a cold compress around the throat area to help with swelling and call 000 immediately.
You can learn more about the management of emergency incidents by completed a fully accredited Ambulance Victoria First Aid course. They are scheduled throughout Victoria so click here…….to find out when and where they take place or call 1800 248 859