flashcards_insect_bites
How should a visible stinger be removed from an insect bite?
Remove by scraping sideways.
What general care should be given after an insect bite or sting?
Clean the area with soap and water and advise on prevention.
What specific advice should be given for bedbug bites?
Advise contacting pest control.
What should be done if fleas are suspected in insect bites?
Often associated with contact with domesticated pets; animals should be tested and treated if necessary.
What management should be checked for lice bites?
Check head lice management.
What management should be checked for scabies bites?
Check scabies management.
What is the treatment for Lyme disease (Borrelia) from an insect bite?
Doxycycline, amoxicillin, and cefuroxime.
What should be considered for transient localised reactions to insect bites?
Consider simple analgesia.
How can swelling from an insect bite be reduced?
Can reduce with ice pack application (15min on and off regimen).
What can be used to reduce itching from an insect bite?
Oral antihistamine or topical steroids (hydrocortisone 1%) may reduce itching.
What can be given for moderate-severe reactions to insect bites?
Oral steroids for 3-5 days.
What OTC agents can be used for insect bites?
Crotamiton, topical antihistamines, and topical anaesthesia.
How should secondary bacterial infection from an insect bite be treated?
Treat as cellulitis.
What should be checked for in animal and human bites?
Check for risk of tetanus and rabies.
What is the rabies risk management for non-immunised individuals?
Rabies vaccine + rabies immunoglobulin.
