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Alternative names Return to top
Bites - snakesConsiderations Return to top
Each year in the U.S., there are over 8,000 poisonous snakebites -- mostly in the summer season.
Poisonous snake bites are medical emergencies, and they can be deadly if not treated quickly. Children are at higher risk for death or serious complications because of their smaller body size. However, the right anti-venom can save a victim's life. Getting the victim to an emergency room as quickly as possible is the top priority, as many snakebites if properly treated will not have serious effects.
Snake bites can cause severe local tissue damage and often require follow-up care.
Causes Return to top
Poisonous snake bites include bites by any of the following:
Symptoms Return to top
First Aid Return to top
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 victim flat, raise the feet about a foot, and cover the victim with a blanket.
6. Get medical help immediately.
7. Bring in the dead snake only if this can be done without risk of further injury. 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 dead snake can bite from reflex for up to an hour.
Do Not Return to top
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if Return to top
Call for help if someone has been bitten by a snake that you think may be poisonous, especially if the person experiences symptoms. Time is of the essence. If possible, call ahead to the emergency room so that anti-venom can be ready when the victim arrives.Prevention Return to top
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |