How to treat a Pit Viper Snake Bite

Snakes bites are feared by most people in the United States. Pit Viper snake bites are considered deadly by many people, but that is entirely true. In the United States, there are about 7000 report poisonous snakes bites. Fatalities in the United States from snakes bite average around 15 a year. The odds are in your favor for a full recovery if early and proper treatment is rendered.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phone
• Water
• Splint

1. Call 911 to alert the Fire Department and EMS. If you are in a remote area, transporting the victim in your vehicle is a better idea.

2. Claim the victim by assuring him or her that poisonous snake bites can be successfully treated.

3. Have the victim lay on their back and remain still. Reducing movements of the victim will slow down the spread of the venom.

4. Locate the bite and gently flush it with water and soap. Never apply ice to the bite!

5. The victim might vomit, make sure this does not block their airway and they can breath effectively.

6. Mark the swollen are around the bite by drawing a circle with a pen. Also include the time the circle was drawn. The will give the hospital an idea how fast the swelling is moving.

7. Get definitive medical care as fast as possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not give the victim anything to drink or eat!
• Notify 911 and or the hospital while in route the details of the snake so preparations can be made to get the correct antivenin.

[mattsaboy]

on 9/13/2009 Great article and tips. 5 stars

[soanyway]

on 9/6/2009 I like the circle with the pen & time tip! I have recomn'd you. Pay it forward to all! ;-)
P.S...I think you meant un-true in your opening???