Final answer:
While scraping off jellyfish tentacles is a traditional method, it is recommended to rinse the sting with vinegar or saltwater first to prevent further stings before the tentacles are removed with a gloved hand or plastic card carefully. Always seek medical attention for severe symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is partially true, but it is vital to follow the correct protocol when dealing with a jellyfish sting to avoid further injury or infection. Traditional advice has been to scrape off jellyfish tentacles, but recent guidelines suggest that it is better to rinse the area with vinegar to inhibit any remaining stinging cells (nematocysts) from firing. If vinegar is not available, you can rinse the area with salt water, being careful not to use fresh water since it might trigger more stinging cells to activate.
After inactivating the nematocysts, you can then use a gloved hand, tweezers, or something like a plastic card to gently lift off any remaining tentacles from the skin. Remember to proceed with caution, avoiding rubbing the affected area, as this could cause additional nematocysts to release their venom. It is also important to seek medical attention, especially if the person stung has symptoms such as severe pain, difficulty breathing, or a large area of stinging. Furthermore, take care not to introduce more harm; for example, be careful when working with boiling water for potential remedies or any other treatments that may cause burns or further injury.