First Aid for STINGS

Neutralize the nematocysts by pouring a liberal amount of acetic acid 5% (white vinegar) over the injured area - this prevents further injury to the diver and reduces the risk to the rescuer of being stung while providing first aid. If vinegar is unavailable, irrigate with seawater or saline solution. Be sure to wear protective medical gloves to avoid disease transmission and possible injury from any remaining nematocysts. Once the stinging cells have been neutralized, you can remove any remaining tentacles with forceps or tweezers. You can also shave the area with shaving cream and a safety razor. Apply hydrocortisone cream or lotion and monitor for allergic reaction and/or infection. If the diver experiences pain, apply ice or an ice pack to the area. For venomous fish such as scorpion fish, stingrays, lionfish and stonefish, the mechanism of injury is typically a defensive reaction by the animal. Injuries like this can occur when divers come into inadvertent contact with a creature by stepping on it, brushing against it or running right into it. Divers can also be injured when trying to handle or feed these fish. Signs and symptoms of spine puncture injuries include immediate pain, puncture or laceration, purple or black skin coloration, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, swelling, shock, respiratory arrest and cardiac arrest.