You are responding to a local beach where a 14-year-old male is experiencing severe pain in his left foot after stepping on something in the water. On clinical examination there are several small puncture wounds on the plantar surface of his left heel and the surrounding area is red and swollen. He complains of 10/10 pain and other than a slight tachycardia his vital signs are within normal limits and the remainder of his physical examination is unremarkable. Based on the history and clinical findings, the patient has most likely been envenomed by:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of severe pain, puncture wounds, and localized swelling are consistent with a stonefish sting. Stonefish are known for their venomous spines that can cause intense pain and tissue damage when stepped on.

You Are Responding to a Local Beach Where a 14-Year-Old