Snake venom is carried in the lymphatic system and not in the blood stream, as many mistakenly believe. That’s why the main aim of snake bite first aid is to reduce lymphatic flow by applying a compression bandage over the affected limb. This is known as the Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT).
Immediate first aid should be applied to any snake bite victim. |
STEP 1
Lay the victim down and provide reassurance. Call 000. Do not move the victim unless further danger is present. Firmly apply a broad compression bandage over the bite site, cling wrap can be used here.
Lay the victim down and provide reassurance. Call 000. Do not move the victim unless further danger is present. Firmly apply a broad compression bandage over the bite site, cling wrap can be used here.
STEP 2
Ensure not to wipe or clean the bite site, you may cover the bite with a non absorbent dressing. Ensuring to start at the bite site with compression and wrap the bandage up the limb. try to get the compression all the way to the groin or arm pit.
The compression bandage should be firm enough to reduce lymphatic movement but not constrict blood flow. Ensure you leave the tips of the toes/fingers out to monitor circulation.
Ensure not to wipe or clean the bite site, you may cover the bite with a non absorbent dressing. Ensuring to start at the bite site with compression and wrap the bandage up the limb. try to get the compression all the way to the groin or arm pit.
The compression bandage should be firm enough to reduce lymphatic movement but not constrict blood flow. Ensure you leave the tips of the toes/fingers out to monitor circulation.
STEP 3
Once the entire limb has been covered, mark the bite site with a pen or some dirt from the ground. This is helpful for emergency services personnel.
Once the entire limb has been covered, mark the bite site with a pen or some dirt from the ground. This is helpful for emergency services personnel.
STEP 4
Splint the limb (including joints) to prevent movement. For bites to the leg, this can be achieved by strapping the legs together using slings or other suitable material. Bites to the arm can be supported in a sling or splinted. Do not remove the bandage once applied.
Make the victim comfortable and continue to provide reassurance until arrival of emergency services.
Splint the limb (including joints) to prevent movement. For bites to the leg, this can be achieved by strapping the legs together using slings or other suitable material. Bites to the arm can be supported in a sling or splinted. Do not remove the bandage once applied.
Make the victim comfortable and continue to provide reassurance until arrival of emergency services.
In Australia, anti-venom is available for all venomous snake bites by indigenous snakes. Identification happens via any venom found on the clothes or the skin, which is why you should never wash or suck the bite out or dispose of clothing. |
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© Copyright 2018 Herpetocultutal Cooperative NSW (HCN) | Developed by: HCN
© Copyright 2018 Herpetocultutal Cooperative NSW (HCN) | Developed by: HCN