Nursing 213

N213: Health Differences Across the Lifespan 3 Study Guide • • • Death Nursing assessment for insect stings and animal bites: • Assess respiratory status and give epinephrine and/or CPR • Take vital signs and watch for hypotension (anaphylactic shock) • Assess pain levels on a 1-10 scale • If snake bite, keep patient calm and quiet; have patient lie recumbent and keep affected body part immobile; remove restrictive clothing; do not apply tourniquets or ice • Check skin for open areas, swelling, and redness; cleanse with normal saline • Determine source of bite and try to locate animal or insect for confirmation • Ask patient if there are any allergies to bites or stings Nursing diagnosis for insect stings and animal bites: • Risk for infection, secondary to open areas on skin • Pain related to puncture wound • Altered skin integrity related to bite/sting • Risk for injury related to the effects of venom from bite/sting • Knowledge deficit related to self-care, prevention, and carrying of epinephrine rescue if allergic; this should be a priority nursing diagnosis upon discharge Nursing interventions for insect stings and animal bites: • Monitor for signs of anaphylaxis, hypotension, and respiratory distress; administer epinephrine, IV fluids, and oxygen if necessary; give CPR if necessary • Offer ice packs to relieve pain and swelling (never use ice in snakebites) • Give oral anti-histamines if patient is not in respiratory distress • Give pain medication per MD order • Perform wound care, flush with normal saline, and wrap in light dressing • Remove bee stinger with a light scraping motion • Teach patient how to avoid bites and stings: avoid perfumes, avoid bright clothing, and wear shoes • Teach patient how to use an epinephrine pen and order a medical emergencybracelet Expected outcomes for insect stings and animal bites: • Maintains stable respiratory status and patent airway • Verbalizes increased comfort and pain relief Coagulation issues Seizure • Coma

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