First aid after snakebite

FM Bureau | 01-March-2014

If the snake is venomous, the person who was bitten by a snake should be given first aid. If the snake is not venomous, treat it as a puncture wound   

By FM Bureau

Immediate steps

• Move the person beyond the striking distance of the snake
• Have the person lie down with the wound below the heart
• Keep the person still to prevent venom from spreading
• Cover the wound with loose, sterile bandage
• Note the snake’s nature and describe it to the emergency staff

Don’t do

• Cut a bite wound
• Attempt to suck out venom
• Apply tourniquet, ice or water
• Give the person alcohol or caffeinated drinks

Follow-up in case you treat the bite at home

• Contact a healthcare expert
• The person may need a tetanus shot
• Tetanus boosters should be given every 10 years

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