Treatment of Snake Bite
If possible, determine definitely if the snake is poisonous. If it is not, no treatment is necessary other than application of an antiseptic. If the snake is poisonous, typical symptoms will appear rapidly: bruised appearance at bite, noticeable swelling, and intense pain. Later, the victim may become nauseated and may even faint. The important thing to do is to get to a doctor or a hospital as soon as possible. In the meantime, the following measures should be taken to retard the spread of the venom.
1. Place tourniquet between bite and body. Use handkerchief, tie, or any other handy cloth. Tie loosely around arm, place stick in slack part and twist. (Fig. A) Tourniquet should not be too tight. Should be able to push finger under it. Loosen for a minute every 15 minutes. If bitten on hand or lower arm, be sure to remove any rings, bracelets, or watches.
A
2. Sterilize a knife or razor blade, using a match, and make a cut through each fang puncture ¼ inch deep and ½ inch long, parallel to limb. (Fig. B).
B
3. Apply suction to cuts, using either the cup from a snake-bite kit or the mouth, if there are no sores, cracked lips, or bleeding gums. Continue suction for several minutes. (Fig. C).
C
4. As swelling progresses up limb, tourniquet should be moved ahead of swelling and additional cuts and suction should be made at edge of swelling. (Fig. D).
D
5. A wet compress should be applied over all cuts to encourage bleeding. (Fig. E).
E
Upon arrival at doctor’s or hospital, antivenom may be injected after the determination for serum sensitivity. Antivenin may be administered by a person other than a doctor, but this is recommended only in cases where a doctor or hospital is not readily accessible.
Snake bite kits are available at most drug stores and should be carried by persons or groups going into areas inhabited by poisonous snakes.