Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Look at the bitten area. If the area begins to change color and bulge, you have been bitten by a poisonous snake. Look for blood from the bite, and note any pain and bruising in the bitten area.
Step2
Get a look at what bit you or the person in question. Don't go hunt the snake down, but listen for a rattler or look at the head and tail. All rattlesnake bites are treated the same and the same anti-venom is used, so just get a general idea of what kind of snake it might be.
Step3
Transport the patient to a doctor right away. This is the best thing you can do for the bitten person. If you are within 30 minutes of a doctor, go there. If you are farther away, treat the bite as you drive to the doctor.
Step4
Wash the bitten area with soap and water if available. Don't do this and then go to the doctor; do this on the way.
Step5
Keep the infected area lower than the heart and immobilize it. Use a stick, board or any hard surface and try not to move the bitten limb or area.