SNAKE BITE
CALL 911 BEFORE PROCEEDING:
If Snake is NOT poisonous treat as puncture wound!
then...
1. Note the Snake's Appearance
CALL 911 BEFORE PROCEEDING:
If Snake is NOT poisonous treat as puncture wound!
then...
1. Note the Snake's Appearance
- Be ready to describe the snake to emergency staff.
While waiting for medical help:
- Move the person beyond striking distance of the snake.
- Have the person lie down with wound below the heart.
- Keep the person still to keep venom from spreading.
- Cover the wound with loose, sterile bandage.
Do not:
- Cut a bite wound
- Attempt to suck out venom
- Apply tourniquet, ice, or water
- Give the person alcohol or caffeinated drinks
If you treat the bite at home:
- Contact a health care provider. The person may need a tetanus shot. Tetanus boosters should be given every 10 years.
At the hospital, treatment will depend on the type of snake.
- If the snake was venomous, the person will be given anti-venom treatment.
- A tetanus shot may be given, depending on date of last injection.