Wound assessment of the Loxosceles reclusa spider bite

The purpose of this study was to determine the data that are most important for nurses to recognize in the assessment of a Loxosceles reclusa (brown recluse) spider bite. Given such assessment elements, it may be possible to decrease the severity of complications and complexity of care by providing the most appropriate therapy.

This study involved a retrospective review of 39 identified patient charts. Aspects that were examined included demographics, wound assessments, and outcome data. Patients who came to the study facility within 48 hours of the bite and whose diagnosis was a probable or possible brown spider bite met inclusion criteria.

Data analysis revealed that the majority of patients sustained bites on the extremities and that those bites produced the most commonly noted symptoms. This is the first study in which specific local and systemic symptoms have been quantified and related to the wound area. Because of varied treatment and limited follow-up, determining the relationship between wound assessment and outcome was problematic.

Ongoing studies, in contrast to retrospective review, are needed to reduce the limitations of this study, such as the loss of patients to follow-up. Areas for further research include the replication of this study and detailed analysis of treatment variables in relation to wound outcome.