1 Keep victim still
2Clean wound
3Summon help
4Immobilize injured part
5Monitor condition
SWALLOWED POISONS • SNAKE AND SPIDER BITES
Snake and spider bites
57
A bite from a venomous snake or spider can cause severe pain and burning at the site of the wound, in addition to swelling and discoloration. Most victims of such bites recover rapidly if they receive prompt hospital treatment and are given the appropriate antivenin. The aims of first-aid treatment are to seek medical assistance quickly and to try to identify the snake or spider.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
• Severe pain and burning
• Pair of puncture marks( snake bite)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Breathing difficulties
• Irregular heartbeat
TREATING SNAKE AND SPIDER BITES
1 Keep victim still
• Lay the victim down, keeping the heart above the level of the bite.
• Keep the victim calm and still.
2Clean wound
• Wash the wound carefully.
• Pat it dry with clean swabs or other nonfluffy material, but do not rub it.
3Summon help
• Dial 911 or call EMS.
• If possible, give the dispatcher a description of the snake or spider that has bitten the victim.
! Important
• Do not catch a venomous spider or snake to try to identify it.
• Do not apply a tourniquet.
• Do not cut the wound open or attempt to suck out the venom.
4Immobilize injured part
• Place a light compression bandage on the affected part to minimize blood flow. Start bandaging just above the bite and continue up the limb.
• If a leg is affected, tie both legs together with folded triangular bandages.
4
Bind legs together to immobilize injured leg
5Monitor condition
• Monitor the victim’ s breathing( p. 68 for an adult, p. 71 for a child or baby), pulse( p. 68 for an adult, p. 70 for a child or baby), and level of consciousness( p. 12) every 10 minutes until help arrives.