How to treat snake bite?

What is the first aid to treat a snake bite?

• Answer:

  The Red Cross advises calling 911 and basically treating for shock, except keeping the injured limb low. Of the 800 or so venomous bites every year in the US, only a dozen are fatal. most people will die of mis-care or shock. Cut and suck usually makes things worse since the rescuer has no training in it. Tourniquets and restrictive ties cause problems as well. The treatment many experts recommend is: 1. Get the victim away from the snake and to a safe location. Identify the snake if possible, but do not put anyone at risk to do so. 2. See if the bite was 'hot'. Most snakes are not venomous, and many venomous snakes 'dry bite' with little or no venom when they are in a defensive mode. If the bite does not hurt, swell, or react some way, it was probably a dry bite. Treat it as a puncture wound, and monitor it closely. (You may have to treat for shock just because of the stress of being bitten.) If it reacts... 3. Call 911 or send for help. if possible, call the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222 in most places) 4. Have the victim lie down. Lower the bitten limb, and elevate unaffected legs. Make the victim comfortable- add or remove clothing as needed. 5. If possible, cool off the bitten area. Cold packs, cool towels, etc. will slow blood circulation adn ease pain. 6. Monitor the breathing and circulation. Treat other issues as they develop. Keep the victim calm, reassured, and comfortable. 7. If you HAVE to move the victim, let them rest and calm down first. Splint or use a sling to minimize the limb's movement and go slow. Keep the victim well hydrated.