Snakebite Protocol - the Do's and Don'ts in fist aid treatment for snakebites

Following the correct snakebite protocol when treating a snakebite victim is extremely important.
There are countless myths and fallacies concerning the first aid treatment of a snakebite.
Incorrect procedure more often than not increases the damage already done by the venom , and could lead to further complications.

Before discussing the correct snakebite protocol, it is important to dispel some of the myths regarding the treatment of snakebite.

What NOT TO DO

* Do not try to suck out the venom. This is ineffective and a total waste of valuable time. This kind of treatment only works in Hollywood. So, unless your name is John Wayne or Wyatt Earp, refrain from using this technique.

* Do not attempt to cut open the area around the bite. By doing this, you are only aggravating the situation, doing more damage by exposing more tissue.

* Do not apply ice to the bite area.

* Do not rub any substances into the bite. Remember the venom has entered the bloodstream, so any substance applied superficially to the bite area is completely fruitless.

* Do not apply a tourniquet without knowing the effect or type of venom that has been injected. For example, by restricting the blood flow with a cytotoxic (tissue destroying) venom, you will only succeed in creating further tissue damage to the affected area.

* Do not inject anything, including antivenom unless you are qualified to do so. Anyone prone to allergies and asthma may go into anaphylactic shock as a result of the antivenom entering the bloodstream which results in a sudden drop in blood pressure and may prove just as fatal as the venom itself. Hospitals and medical staff are equipped to deal with such an eventuality.

* Do not give anything orally to the victim.

* Do not kill the snake for later identification. This is unneccesary as the venom can be correctly identified symptomatically. By trying to kill the snake you are risking another bite and adding fuel to the fire.

* Do not use traditional remedies. Any treatments offered by traditional healers, witchdoctors, and Shamans are ineffective.

All of the above methods are ineffective and should not be used as snakebite protocol.

Now that we have put aside all the "mumbo jumbo", old wives tales, and Hollywood remedies for a snakebite......

Here is the correct snakebite protocol to follow.

What to do in the event of a snakebite

* If the snake is still visible (or within striking distance), move away to minimise the risk of a second bite.

* If at all possible try to identify the snake if it is still visible as this will help the medical staff in providing the best medical care. If the snake has moved away and is no longer visible do not go looking for it. You are increasing the risk of another bite. Remember, identifying the snake is helpful, but not paramount in treating the victim.

* Reassure the victim. Keep the patient calm.

* Restrict movement. Excessive movement speeds up blood circulation and thus distributes the venom through the body at a faster rate.

* In the case of a suspected cytotoxic bite allow for limited movement. This will spread the venom away from the bite site and thus reduce the tissue damage to the area.

* Remove all restrictive jewelry. Remove watches, rings, bracelets etc.

* Cut away restrictive clothing. This exposes the bite area, and in the case of a cytotoxic bite allows the venom to spread away from the bite site and reduces the tissue damage.

* In some instances a crepe pressure bandage is advised, however there are many instances where this is not applicable and this site does not have the scope to discuss all the inclusions and exclusions. For example a crepe pressure bandage is advised for a snouted cobra bite, but not for a black mamba bite yet both possess neurotoxic venom. If in doubt, seek medical advice.

* Keep the patient warm. This reduces the risk of shock.

* Be prepared for CPR. Maintain airways and ensure proper ventilation and maintain cardiovascular integrity.

* Immobilize the affected limb with a splint or sling to reduce the venom distribution.

* Monitor the vital signs until you reach a medical facility.

* Contact the hospital informing them of the patients arrival. This will save valuable time.

* If at all possible be aware of the victims medical history. This will aslo assist the medical staff in treating the bite.

Remember these are guidelines to what I believe to be the correct snakebite protocol and is based on current knowledge. However each situation should be assessed and treated according to it's unique circumstances as there are countless variables which may play an important role in the treatment of a snakebite.

The most effective first aid for a snake bite.....

Get the patient to hospital ASAP

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