Handling Snake Bites..!!!!

Symptoms:

Symptoms depend on the type of snake, but may include:

1. Bleeding from wound
2. Blurred vision
3. Burning of the skin
4. Convulsions
5. Diarrhea
6. Dizziness
7. Excessive sweating
8. Fainting
9. Fang marks in the skin
10. Fever
11. Increased thirst
12. Loss of muscle coordination
13. Nausea and vomiting
14. Numbness and tingling
15. Rapid pulse
16. Tissue death
17. Severe pain
18. Skin discoloration
19. Swelling at the site of the bite
20. Weakness

First Aid:

1. Keep the person calm, reassuring them that bites can be effectively treated in an emergency room. Restrict movement, and keep the affected area below heart level to reduce the flow of venom.
2. If you have a pump suction device (such as that made by Sawyer), follow the manufacturer’s directions.
3. Remove any rings or constricting items because the affected area may swell. Create a loose splint to help restrict movement of the area.
4. If the area of the bite begins to swell and change color, the snake was probably poisonous.
5. Monitor the person’s vital signs — temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, and blood pressure — if possible. If there are signs of shock (such as paleness), lay the person flat, raise the feet about a foot, and cover the person with a blanket.
6. Get medical help right away.
7. Bring in the dead snake only if this can be done safely. Do not waste time hunting for the snake, and do not risk another bite if it is not easy to kill the snake. Be careful of the head when transporting it — a snake can actually bite for several hours after it’s dead (from a reflex)

DO NOT:

1. Do NOT allow the person to become over-exerted. If necessary, carry the person to safety.
2. Do NOT apply a tourniquet.
3. Do NOT apply cold compresses to a snake bite.
4. Do NOT cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor.
5. Do NOT try to suck out the venom by mouth.
6. Do NOT give the person stimulants or pain medications unless a doctor tells you to do so.
7. Do NOT give the person anything by mouth.
8. Do NOT raise the site of the bite above the level of the person’s heart.