At the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Describe what a scorpion looks like
- Explain where in the United States scorpions live
- Explain the type of areas where scorpions tend to be
- State where the only potentially fatal scorpion in the United States lives
- List some tips for preventing scorpion stings
- List some symptoms of mild reactions to scorpion stings
- Explain proper first aid for mild scorpion stings
- List some symptoms of severe reactions to scorpion stings
- Explain proper first aid for severe reactions to scorpion stings
The following key questions are answered in this module:
Where in the U.S. are scorpions found?
Throughout most of the U.S.
Are the stings of most scorpions found throughout the U.S. typically severe or even fatal to a healthy adult?
No, in most cases, only the bite of a bark scorpion leads to a severe health issue and/or death for a healthy adult.
Where do bark scorpions live?
In the American Southwest.
What are some good ways to avoid being bitten?
Practice good housekeeping and work the work area clean/tidy; wear appropriate, long clothing; avoid areas where scorpions tend to live; and be cautious and observant when working.
What should a person do if someone's been bit by a scorpion?
Apply first aid as directed in this course and get the person to qualified medical assistance.
Below is a transcript of the video sample provided for this module:
Scorpion stings are typically minor but can be very serious. This is especially true if the sting is from a bark scorpion, the only scorpion in the United States that can kill an adult with its sting. Bark scorpions live in the American Southwest, especially in Southern California, Southern Arizona, and Western New Mexico. In most cases, scorpion stings cause pain but only relatively minor symptoms and require only minor first aid. In other cases, however, scorpion stings cause severe symptoms and require immediately getting the person to emergency medical assistance. The best thing to do is to avoid being stung by a scorpion. You can reduce the chances of being stung by wearing appropriate clothing and PPE, knowing where scorpions tend to live, and being alert and watchful.
Use the additional resources and links below to learn more about this topic:
- WebMD – www.webmd.com
- WebMD First Aid - http://www.webmd.com/first-aid/tc/scorpion-stings-topic-overview
- Mayo Clinic – www.mayoclinic.org
- Mayo Clinic Diseases & Conditions - http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scorpion-stings/basics/definition/CON-20033894
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) www.cdc.niosh.gov
- NIOSH topics - http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/insects/default.html
- Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) – www.osha.gov
- OSHA Publications - https://www.osha.gov/Publications/rodents_snakes_insects.html
- eMedicine Health – www.emedicinehealth.com
- eMedicine Health First Aid - http://www.emedicinehealth.com/wilderness_scorpion_sting/page4_em.htm