Final answer:
The first thing an AT must do when an athlete has been stung is to remove the stinger, clean the area, and monitor the athlete's symptoms for signs of an allergic reaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first thing an AT (Athletic Trainer) must do when an athlete has been stung is to remove the stinger if it's still embedded in the skin. This can be done by gently scraping a flat object, such as a credit card, over the skin to dislodge the stinger. It's important not to squeeze or pinch the stinger, as that can release more venom.
After removing the stinger, the AT should clean the area with soap and water to prevent infection. They can also apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling and relieve pain. If necessary, the AT may administer over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
Monitoring the athlete's symptoms is another crucial step. The AT should watch for signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives. If any of these symptoms occur, it's important to seek immediate medical attention as it may be a severe allergic reaction.