What would you do if you or someone else was bitten by a poisonous snake? Read on to learn first aid tips that could save a life. Nurses General Nursing Knowledge
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Recently, my husband and I decided to enjoy the longer, warmer days of June by spending the day hiking. I have always called my husband a "snake whisperer", because he is able to simply "sense" any nearby snake. Our hike was no exception, as he quickly spotted a rat snake soaking up the sun in a grassy spot. We knew the rat snake wasn't poisonous and went on our way without any incident. However, I was left wondering if I would know how to respond if a snake did bite.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an estimated 7,000 -8,000 people are bitten by a venomous snake every year. About 5-6 people will die from the bite, however, the following complications are more common.
Between 10 and 44% of people bitten by rattlesnakes will experience some form of permanent injury.
In the U.S., there are 4 types of venomous snakes: rattlesnake, cottonmouth or moccasin, copperhead and coral. Keep in mind, each snake type has many different species. You can read more about venomous snakes, including where they can be found here.
The first (and probably the hardest) thing you need is not panic. Remember, death by snakebite is a very rare occurrence.
First aid while waiting for EMS includes:
There are many long-standing myths surrounding venomous snake bites and it's important to know what NOT to do.
What happens once you are at the hospital? The medical team will assess your symptoms and run lab tests if a venomous snakebite is suspected. Lab tests may include:
Your doctor will then determine if an antivenom needs to be administered to stop the snake venom from causing serious problems with your blood, tissues or central nervous system.
The use of antivenom depends on how much venom entered your body and the snake's size. Size is important because larger snakes usually inject more poison. Envenomation severity is classified by the following:
This occurs when you are bitten but no venom is injected. You will have a puncture wound, but no other symptoms.
Symptoms are usually mild, localized around the bite and may include pain, redness and swelling.
Local symptoms extend several centimeters from the bite to a major joint, such as wrist, elbow or ankle. These bites are more likely to cause severe pain, swelling of the affected limb, nausea, vomiting, and a general unwell feeling.
Symptoms are severe and include severe pain, swelling, breathing difficulties, moderate to severe bleeding and signs of shock.
Note: Antivenom should be given as soon as possible, usually within a 4 hour window. However, it may be effective for up to 2 weeks (sometimes longer) after being bitten.
Here are a few tips on how to prevent snake bites from UC Davis Health.
What first aid tips do you have to share from your own nursing (or personal) experience?
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