The outdoors in Australia are renowned worldwide for having many animals such as snakes and spiders, as well as plants, that can cause harm. Also, camping equipment that can be used can potentially lead to poisoning if misused. The risk of poison, bites and stings are real and learning to treat these types of injuries are essential.
Poisons– There are several methods of poisoning which are treated differently. However, general principles of first aid apply.
Poisons that are ingested (swallowed), probably the most common, require the first aider to help the patient to wash their mouth out with water. It is NOT recommended to induce vomiting. Keep or photograph the substance that has been taken so that it can be used for identification when dealing with the poison hotline or emergency services. As per DRSABCD guidelines, it is important to be aware of any dangers to yourself as the first aider, to send for help from emergency services and continue to monitor the patient in case they deteriorate.
Bites– Snake and spider bites are always a risk in Australian outdoor settings. There are many different types of animals that can bite and some of these can be fatal to humans. The treatment can vary. However, the first aid principles for bites remain the same.
- Lie the patient down. Provide rest and reassurance.
- If on a limb, apply an elasticised roller bandage (10–15 cm wide) over the bite site as soon as possible.
- Apply a further elasticised roller bandage (10–15 cm wide), starting just above the fingers or toes and moving upwards on the bitten limb as far as can be reached. Apply the bandage as firmly as possible to the limb. You should be unable to easily slide a finger between the bandage and the skin. Immobilise the bandaged limb using splints.
- Mark the site of the bite, as well as the time it occurred.
- Continue to monitor the patient using DRSABCD principles.
Stings– There are many different animals that can sting, often causing huge amounts of pain. It is important to recognise what has caused the sting so the appropriate treatment can be given.
For flying animals that sting like bees and wasps, the easiest treatment is to wash the area with warm water and soap. This can assist to remove the sting from the site. Using a cold pack or ice to reduce swelling and pain is also useful. Monitor the patient in case of more severe issues such as potential anaphylaxis.
In marine environments, where creatures such as bluebottles, jellyfish or stonefish can cause stings, hot water is the preferred treatment. Place the affected area into hot water (as hot as the patient can tolerate) for up to 20 minutes.
In tropical marine environments, animals such as the box jellyfish require a different treatment. Apply vinegar to the affected site. The acidity of the vinegar reduces the impact of the sting.