How to Identify and Treat Jellyfish, Anemone and Coral Stings

Jellyfish, anemone and coral all sting when disturbed. Sting symptoms, and their severity, will vary; localized pain is the most common reaction. Treatments are similar for all three types of stings.

Things You'll Need

• Advanced First Aid Certification
• Evacuation Plan
• Wilderness First Aid Classes
• Tubs
• Vinegar
• Antibacterial Ointments
• Antibacterial Soaps
• Bandages
• Compression Bandages
• Eyebrow Tweezers
• First Aid Kits
• Gauze Pads
• Irrigation Syringe
• Evacuation Insurance

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Look for the signs and symptoms of a jellyfish, anemone or coral sting: intense pain at the site of the wound, small raised red areas on the skin, abrasions or lacerations.

• 2

  Soak the wound in vinegar for at least 30 minutes to neutralize the tentacles or stingers.

• 3

  Remove any imbedded spines or tentacles using sterile tweezers.

• 4

  Control bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound.

• 5

  Irrigate the wound using an irrigation syringe.

• 6

  Clean the wound with a disinfectant solution.

• 7

  Dress the wound with a sterile bandage.

• 8

  Monitor for signs of infection. These signs include swelling, redness, pus, red lines radiating from the site of the wound, heat at the site of the wound, fever.

• 9

  Monitor for signs of a severe allergic reaction or poisoning and evacuate immediately if any of these signs are present. Signs of a severe reaction include changes in respiratory or heart rate, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or changes in level of consciousness.