d. Calm the Casualty. Calm the casualty with reassuring words.
e. Identify Arthropod, If Possible. Sometimes, a casualty will know what
stung or bit him. At other times, you may be able to identify the arthropod responsible
for the injury from the casualty's description of the arthropod, from an examination of the
bite/sting site, or from the casualty's signs and symptoms resulting from the bite or
sting.
f. Question Casualty About Allergies. Ask the casualty if he is allergic to any
insects or arthropods. If he says he is, ask him which insects or arthropods he is
allergic to and whether he has a kit for treating allergic reaction to bites or stings
(anaphylactic shock).
g. Treat the Casualty.
(1) Treat the bite or sting based upon your identification (or lack of
identification) of the arthropod. Specific procedures for treating arthropod bites and
stings are given in paragraphs 2-6, 2-8, 2-10, 2-12, 2-14, 2-16, 2-18, 2-20, and 2-22.
Do not apply a tourniquet or attempt the removal of venom by incision or suction.
(2) If signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock are present (paragraph
2-3), treat the casualty for anaphylactic shock (paragraph 2-4) and evacuate the casualty
as soon as possible.
h. Record Treatment. Record the casualty's signs and symptoms and the
treatment given on a DD Form 1380, U.S. Field Medical Card. If the casualty is
evacuated, attach the card to his clothing. If he is returned to duty, forward the card
through proper channels.
i. Evacuate the Casualty/Return Casualty to Duty. Request evacuation if the
casualty is showing signs and symptoms of respiratory distress and/or anaphylactic
shock, is not responding to initial treatment, or has bite or sting from an arthropod
requiring evacuation (such as the brown recluse spider). If a casualty is not showing
any abnormal reaction to the bite or sting and evacuation is not a normal part of
treatment, return the soldier to duty. Tell him to return to you or seek other medical help
if he begins having difficulty breathing or if other signs or symptoms of allergic reaction
occur.
MD0548
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