How to Treat a Snake Bite

Statistics show that each year, almost 8,000 Americans are bitten by venomous snakes. Even a bite from a nonpoisonous snake can sometimes trigger an allergic reaction or infection [source: UMMC].

Snakebites can be lethal if theyre not treated promptly. Administering the proper anti-venom can save the victims life, so its vital to get to the closest hospital emergency room as quickly as possible [source:Medline Plus].

Heres how to treat a snakebite:

• Keep the victim calm.

• Restrict movement of the affected area (use a loose splint if possible), and keep the area below heart level [source: Medline Plus].

• Wash the bite with soap and water [source: UMMC].

• Draw the venom out of the wound using a pump suction device, if available. Follow the devices instructions.

• Remove all constricting items, such as rings, in case the area swells. If the area becomes swollen or discolored, the snake was probably poisonous.

• Monitor the victims blood pressure, temperature, breathing rate and pulse, to the best of your ability.

• Watch for signs of shock. If they appear, lay the victim on a flat surface with his legs raised about a foot (30.5 centimeters), and cover him with a blanket [source: Medline Plus].

• Get medical help or transport the victim to a hospital as fast as possible. If no medical care will be available for at least 30 minutes, wrap a bandage 2 to 4 inches (50.2 to 101.6 millimeters) above the wound, making sure its loose enough to slip your finger beneath it [source: UMMC].

Caution:Do not do the following:

• Let the victim overexert himself (if necessary, carry the victim)

• Use a tourniquet

• Apply a cold compress

• Cut a snakebite with a knife or razor

• Suck out the venom by mouth

• Administer stimulants or painkillers except under the direction of a doctor

• Give the victim anything orally

• Raise the area of the bite area above heart level [source: Medline Plus]