Snakebite First Aid

Immobilization/Pressure Bandage Technique

Principle

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Injected venom is mainly distributed via the body's lymphatic system, which is heavily influenced by patient movement. Decreased victim movement = decreased venom distribution. Recent medical research shows that the speed of application of effective immobilisation & splinting of the limb, & application of a pressure bandage influences patient outcome & survivability.

1. Ensure that patient (& other people) are no longer at risk
2. Reassure patient. Ensure they lie down & keep still
   1. It is critical that bitten part & patient do not move
3. Monitor airway, breathing & circulation & support as necessary
4. First aid MUST be started immediately
   1. Do not ignore a trivial bite, especially if suspected to be from a species of Brown Snake
   2. Don't interfere with the bite in any way
   3. Don't remove any clothing
   4. Remove all jewellery from bitten limb
5. Apply heavy weight crepe bandage(s) with even pressure
   1. Bandage over clothing or cut up seam to allow access to skin
   2. Start at extremity & work up arm or leg
   3. Include fingers or toes to minimise movement
   4. Use same pressure as to bandage a sprained wrist or ankle
   5. Be careful not to apply bandage too loosely
   6. Mark location of bite on bandage (for venom detection in hospital)
6. Immobilise limb with splint or improvise as necessary
   1. Ensure that joints (of arm or leg) are effectively immobilised
   2. Use second bandage to keep splint in place
7. Contact Ambulance emergency number - 000 or 112 from mobiles (RFDS in remote areas)
   1. Follow professional advice regarding transport of patient
8. Patient must remain still. Bring transport to patient if possible
9. No food or drink except sips of water (only on victim's request)
10. Patient must be transported quickly & passively to hospital (preferably by ambulance)
11. Where possible, let paramedics be in total charge of extrication planning. Better to stay quiet & let them arrange transport (Based upon information from Clinical Toxinology Short Course 2005 and 2010, Toxinology Resources website www.toxinology.com, & advice from Chris Cotton, Intensive Care Paramedic, South Australian Ambulance Service, February 2007)