What is the most efficient way to treat a snake bite when all you got is a simpl!
Question:
What is the most efficient way to treat a snake bite when all you got is a simple first aid kit?
Answers:
Snake bites should be treated according to specific in-field and in-hospital recommendations. In recent years much research has been performed concerning venomous and nonvenoumous snake bites with great improvement in outcomes.
The following information is based on solid medical research and experience:
Management In The Field
Initial first aid of envenomation (snake venom injection via a bite) is directed at reducing the spread of venom and expediting transfer to an appropriate medical center.
General Principles of In Field Management:
The following general principles are widely agreed upon:
1. The patient should be removed from the snake's territory, kept warm and at rest, and be reassured.
2. The injured part of the body should be immobilized in a functional position below the level of the heart.
3. The wound should be cleansed.
4. Withhold alcohol and drugs from the victim as they may confound clinical assessment.
5. Attempt to identify the snake, without endangering the patient or rescuer. A digital photo taken at a safe distance may be useful. Snake parts should not be handled directly. The bite reflex may remain intact in recently killed snakes, possibly being able to inflict a bite.
6. Transport the patient to the nearest medical facility as quickly as possible.
Methods Not Recommended:
Methods such as incision and oral suction, mechanical suction devices, surgery, and electric shock therapy have been widely used but are no longer recommended. As an example, a common misconception is that one should apply a tourniquet, suck out the poison, and spit it out. However, this approach is strongly discouraged, since it can damage nerves, tendons, and blood vessels and lead to infection.
Furthermore, venom removal by suction is minimal. This was illustrated in a study of mock venom extraction with a mechanical suction device in human volunteers; suction reduced the total body venom burden by only two percent-!!
I hope this is useful to you.
DrEarp