What is the most efficient way to treat a snake bite when all you got is a simple first aid kit?
Answer:
Snake bites should be treated according to specific in-field and in-hospital recommendations. In recent years much research has been performed concerning venomous and nonvenoumous snake bites with great improvement in outcomes.
The following information is based on solid medical research and experience:
Management In The Field
Initial first aid of envenomation (snake venom injection via a bite) is directed at reducing the spread of venom and expediting transfer to an appropriate medical center.
General Principles of In Field Management:
The following general principles are widely agreed upon:
1. The patient should be removed from the snake's territory, kept warm and at rest, and be reassured.
2. The injured part of the body should be immobilized in a functional position below the level of the heart.
3. The wound should be cleansed.
4. Withhold alcohol and drugs from the victim as they may confound clinical assessment.
5. Attempt to identify the snake, without endangering the patient or rescuer. A digital photo taken at a safe distance may be useful. Snake parts should not be handled directly. The bite reflex may remain intact in recently killed snakes, possibly being able to inflict a bite.
6. Transport the patient to the nearest medical facility as quickly as possible.
Methods Not Recommended:
Methods such as incision and oral suction, mechanical suction devices, surgery, and electric shock therapy have been widely used but are no longer recommended. As an example, a common misconception is that one should apply a tourniquet, suck out the poison, and spit it out. However, this approach is strongly discouraged, since it can damage nerves, tendons, and blood vessels and lead to infection.
Furthermore, venom removal by suction is minimal. This was illustrated in a study of mock venom extraction with a mechanical suction device in human volunteers; suction reduced the total body venom burden by only two percent-!!
I hope this is useful to you.
DrEarp
Suck the poison out and spit it out. . .but make sure whoever sucks the poison out does not have any cuts on his/her lips and tongue
what kind of snake we talkin bout?
If the snake was poisonous get to a doctor. If not, keep it clean and watch for infection. If you don't know, go to the Doctor.
There is no need to suck the venom out. Wilderness trainers now teach to keep the bitten limb below the heart to prevent rushing the poison to the heart, and immobilize the limb. Then get ye to the nearest ER for antivenom if needed... Also, it is recommended that the snake be captured and brought to the ER, especially if you cannot identify the snake
well their screwed. put a bandage on it and hope for the best.lol . whats in the kit.
If all you have is a first aid kit, clean the wound, put antibiotic ointment and a dressing on it, and get to the hospital ASAP!
I suggest you seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY! Even if the snake wasnt venomous, you may be prone to infection or worse. Just because the snake wasnt venomous, doesnt mean that it wont have any affect on your body.
Good Luck!
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