The honeybee stinger should be removed in which manner?

• A. squeezed with tweezers and removed
• B. left in place and covered
• C. scraped away from the skin
• D. irrigated with copious amounts of water

Answer: (C)

Removing a honeybee stinger correctly focuses on minimizing venom delivery. The stinger carries a venom sac, and squeezing or pinching it with tweezers can rupture that sac and push more venom into the skin. A quick scrape with a blunt edge—such as a fingernail or a plastic card—along the skin’s surface lifts the stinger out with far less pressure. Leaving the stinger in place would allow venom to continue leaking into the tissue. After removal, cleanse the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Seek medical help if there are signs of a severe allergic reaction.