b'Chapter hapterSpecific ManagementNon Tropical Bluebottle JellyfishCarefully pick off any tentacles stuck to the skin (this is not harmful to the first aider).Rinse well with seawater (not fresh water) to remove invisible stinging cells.(Fresh water tends to cause release of more venom from the Bluebottle Jellyfish.)Place the injury gently into hot water (45C for 20 minutes) or use hot compressessuch as a towel immersed in hot water, being careful not to scald. Hot water is an effective and practical treatment for localised pain relief.I f pain is not relieved by heat or if hot water is not available, paradoxically, the application of cold packs or wrapped ice may be effective.Do Not Apply Vinegar. Do not allow rubbing of the sting area.If pain is unrelieved or generalised pain develops or if the sting covers an extensivearea (half a limb or more) call Ambulance 000.For a long time, pain from a Bluebottle Jellyfish sting has always been treated by applying ice/cold compress. Recent studies indicate however, that the most effective and practical way to treat a Bluebottle Jellyfish sting is actually with heat/hot water.Dog BitesDog ownership within a family brings with it the risk of dog bites. Children under five years of age are most at risk of dog bite injuries by their own family dog or by a friends dog, usually in and around their own home. Around 30,000 people each year attend hospital emergency departments in Australia for dog bite injuries. Young children are often bitten on the head, face and neck because of their height relation to the dog.Dog bites can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement and the wounds may become infected. If bitten by a dog, the child may require a tetanus booster and other medical care.Cat BitesAlthough cats are smaller than dogs they are capable of producing serious injuries through bites and scratches. Cats teeth are sharp and needle-like and produce puncture wounds that have an increased risk of infection (approximately 80% of cat bites become infected.) Cats mouths and claws generally have more bacteria than dogs and this also increases the risk of infection.How to Manage Wash the wound with soap and water. If not bleeding profusely, rinse the wound under running water. Apply a clean pad and bandage.(refer to page 69).Control bleeding with direct pressure Seek medical attention. Bite wounds often require antibiotics to help prevent infection. Makesure tetanus immunisation is current.Bites and Stings 163Bites and Stings 163'