8) Essential Scorpion Sting First Response

Predicting the outcome of a scorpion sting can be achieved when all of the circumstances of the scorpion sting event are known. However, how can we predict or react in instances where not all of these factors are known?

Red flags are specific combinations of factors that, according to medical literature and understanding, have been known to result in class 3 and 4 symptoms. They are useful when all the circumstances of the sting are not known. These early factors and early symptoms are well documented tell tale factors that precede class 3 and 4 delayed symptoms. 

First response is largely focused upon predicting symptoms before they occur and identifying symptoms (and their classes) as they occur. A decision needs to be made to do nothing because that is what needs to be done, or to transport the patient to medical assistance as soon as possible. Between these two extremes lies the answer to the question: As a first responder, what should you do?

When responding to a scorpion sting event, always begin by assessing the situation in 3 ways.

• Question the patient - what did the scorpion look like, how are you feeling, where is the scorpion now?
• Are there any factors that influence symptom severity - how do these factors influence the outcome of the scorpion sting?
• Are there any red flags - red flags represent combinations of factors that together represent a medical emergency. Red flags are particularly important when the patient is a child or an animal.

Assessing the scorpion sting event in these 3 ways, will provide a good solid understanding of the urgency of the situation. 

There are many people who question the role of complimentary and alternative medicine in scorpion sting first response. However, as close and respected member of the community, these practitioners have an important role to play.

They are often the first person that the patient will seek assistance from. They are available, often close at hand, well known in the community and are in a position to provide good advice to someone in need.

It is in the best interest of the patient that practitioners of complimentary and alternative medicine have the capacity to recognise the limits of their influence, be able to identify circumstances that are beyond their ability to threat the patient, and redirect the patient to a professional medical facility. Time to treatment is important in preventing class 3 symptoms developing into class 4.

There is no doubt that complimentary and alternative medicine practitioners have an important role to play in scorpion sting first response, however with no natural or alternative equivalent for medical science and antivenom that are so vital for effective treating class 3 or 4 symptoms, the only mode of effective treatment is from a medical professional in a medical facility.