If stung by a honey bee you should

• A. Pull the stinger out with tweezers
• B. Crush the stinger
• C. Apply ice only
• D. Scrape out immediately

Answer: (D)

Removing the stinger quickly is the key. Use something flat and dull, like the edge of a credit card or a fingernail, and gently scrape across the skin to lift and remove the stinger and attached venom sac. This sweeping action minimizes squeezing the sac, which would push more venom into the tissue. Pulling with tweezers or crushing the stinger can push venom deeper and worsen symptoms, while applying ice alone doesn’t remove the stinger and won’t stop venom delivery. After removal, wash the area and you can apply a cold compress briefly to reduce swelling. Watch for signs of a more serious reaction, and seek urgent care if you have trouble breathing, face or throat swelling, or widespread hives.