Aongatete Camp 2016 - Lesson 7

First Aid - Wasps, blisters, Sprains, Burns, Cuts

In any case, prevention is the first step to eliminate the need for First Aid.

- Know the signs of a blister forming and deal with it early

- Recognise the signs of wasp environment and activity

- Know the correct use of equipment and use precautions around fires / sharp tools

- Have the correct footwear and move purposefully and carefully without rushing

Wasps

A wasp can sting many times. They do not leave a sting like bees do, so it is not possible to remove the venom once a person has been stung.

In areas with wasps, many people get stung more than once. Therefore, move away from the area quickly and calmly before beginning treatment.

Where are wasps?

- Wasps defend their nests.
- Nests are usually close to or at ground level, near the bush edge and in clearings. A water source is often nearby.

Warning signs

- Wasps travel at high speed and in a straight line when going in and out of their nest. That is your warning you are near a nest.
- If safe to do so, stop and observe to locate the nest and take a wide detour to avoid it.

Walk to avoid upsetting wasps
- Don’t bash the bushes and grasses along the sides of the track.
- Don’t overtake others by crashing through the sides of the track.
- Often the front of the line will stir up the nest but people further back will get stung.

Action if attacked
- Quickly and calmly move away from the area. The wasps will only follow you until you are away from the nest.
- Warn others behind you about the nest.

Treatment
- When safe, sit patient down, keeping them quiet and still.
- Put something cold on the sting site to help relieve the pain.
- Give the patient an antihistamine tablet (it will take 20 mins to work)
- Watch for symptoms of anaphylaxis (administer adrenaline if appropriate)
- Have patient rest until they have recovered, before they resume activity.