What should be marked on the skin after a bite or sting?

• A. The position of the bite.
• B. The color of the skin.
• C. The initial edematous area with a pen and note the time.
• D. The patient’s age.

Answer: (C)

Documenting the initial swelling and time is the key step. By outlining the first edematous area with a pen and writing the time, you create a baseline to compare future changes. This helps you notice if the swelling is spreading quickly, which can indicate a worsening reaction and may require faster treatment or transport. It also provides a clear reference for medical responders if you seek care later. Marking the position or noting skin color or age won’t give you a reliable picture of how the reaction is progressing, and age isn’t relevant to the immediate local reaction.