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Snake Bite

snakebit.jpg Treatment:
  • Keep the victim calm and still.
  • Keep the affected area below the level of heart, so as to contain venom locally.
  • Wash hands thoroughly or put on the latex gloves before attending the wound.
  • If the bite is not bleeding, wash the wound well with mild soap and water and pat dry with clean swabs or other non-fluffy material.
  • If the bite is actively bleeding, control the bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean and dry cloth until the bleeding subsides.
  • Remove any of the constricting items.
  • Lightly compress the limb above the wound with a roller bandage.
  • Immobilise the injury, immobilise an injured arm with a sling and an injured leg by binding it to the injured leg.
  • If the patient stops breathing, be ready to resuscitate if needed.
  • Observe the bite for signs of infection (increasing skin redness, swelling) and other vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure).
  • If the area around the wound begins to swell and change colour, the snake was probably poisonous.
  • Get medical help as soon as possible.

Warning

  • Do not apply ice or a cold pack to snakebite because cold can cause the venom to spread further.
  • Do not apply a Tourniquet such as a belt, necktie or cord.
  • Do not slash the wound with a knife.
  • Never try to suck the venom orally.
  • Patient should never be put to strenuous physical exercises.
  • Site of the bite should not be raised above the heart level.
  • No stimulants or pain medicators should be taken without the prescription of the doctor.
  • Removal of the dressing/elastic wraps to be avoided until you are at a facility ready and able to administer antivenom.
  • Do not eat or drink unless told by the doctor.

Prevention


  • Do not thrust hands or feet into any areas if you cannot see into the area.
  • Avoid playing or picking up any snake unless you are properly trained.
  • Wear long pants and boots if possible while hiking into an area known to have snakes.
  • If given adequate warning, snakes will avoid coming near to you. Hence before entering an area with an obscured base, tap ahead with a walking stick.