First aid measures for snake bites

Oct 23, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Haiying

Introduction

First aid measures for snakebite include staying calm, bandaging the wound, cleaning the wound, removing venom, and seeking medical help promptly. After a snakebite, do not attempt to suck out the venom with your mouth, as this may cause secondary infection. The victim should try to remember the snake's characteristics or take a photo of it immediately, so that doctors can quickly identify the snake and administer appropriate antivenom upon arrival at the hospital.

Generally, first aid measures for a venomous snakebite include staying calm, immobilizing and bandaging the wound, cleaning the wound, removing venom, and seeking prompt medical attention. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Stay calm: After being bitten by a venomous snake, remain calm and sit down immediately to prevent the venom from spreading.

2. Immobilize and bandage the wound: Use items such as shoelaces, belts, or rubber bands to tie above the wound at a distance of 3.3–9.9 cm from it. Loosen the bandage every 30 minutes to avoid blocking blood circulation and causing tissue necrosis.

3. Clean the wound: Rinse the wound with clean water, cooled boiled water, saline solution, or soapy water to wash away surface venom.

4. Remove venom: Use a sterilized blade to make a "cross-shaped" incision at the bite site to help drain the venom.

5. Seek prompt medical care: Call emergency services (120) immediately to prevent multiple organ failure.

Do not attempt to suck venom out of the wound with your mouth after a snakebite, as this may lead to secondary infection. The patient should try to remember the snake's characteristics or take a photo of it promptly, so that doctors can quickly identify the snake and administer appropriate antivenom upon arrival at the hospital.

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