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Stingray Sting Treatment

If medical attention is not readily available, the following guidelines are recommended in treating a stingray sting:

• Flush the wound with fresh water.


• For pain relief, soak the wound in water as hot as the person can tolerate.


• Use tweezers to remove the stingers.


• Scrub the wound with soap and fresh water.


• Do not cover the wound with tape or close it with stitches. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding.


• Apply topical antibiotic ointment if signs of infection, such as pus, redness, or heat, occur.


• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.

Oral antibiotics are usually recommended for infection.

• Continue antibiotics for at least 5 days after all signs of infection have cleared.


• Let the doctor know about any drug allergy prior to starting an antibiotic.


• Use a sunscreen because some antibiotics may cause sensitivity to the sun.