How should you care for a jellyfish sting in the field?

The most effective way to care for a jellyfish sting in the field is to neutralize the venom with vinegar and then immerse the affected area in hot water. Vinegar is advantageous because it helps to neutralize the nematocysts (stinging cells) that may still be active on the skin, preventing them from firing and releasing more venom. This step is crucial for reducing pain and limiting the local reaction to the sting.

Once the area has been rinsed with vinegar, immersing the sting site in hot water (not scalding) can further alleviate pain and help in breaking down the toxins. The heat increases blood flow and can facilitate the body's ability to break down the jellyfish venom, providing relief from the sting.

Using fresh water to rinse the sting site can potentially trigger more nematocysts, leading to further envenomation. Covering the sting with a bandage without treating it first might not address the ongoing venom release, and applying ice can cause further tissue irritation and does not contribute to neutralizing the venom. Therefore, the approach of using vinegar followed by hot water immersion is the most effective and recommended first-aid method for jellyfish stings in a wilderness setting.