In Australia we have around 170 species of snakes including sea snakes and burrowing snakes, 30 of which are considered to have life-threatening venom. Bob believes the most effective first – aid treatment for venomous snakes and many creatures is the pressure and immobilisation technique.
First AID for a Snake Bite:
- Follow DRSABCD.
- Reassure the patient and ask them not to move.
- Apply a broad crepe bandage over the bite site as soon as possible.
- Apply a pressure bandage (heavy crepe or elasticised roller bandage) starting just above the fingers or toes of the bitten limb, and move upwards on the limb as far as can be reached (include the snake bite). Make sure it is applied firmly but without stopping blood supply to the limb.
- Immobilise the bandaged limb with splints.
- Ensure the patient does not move.
- Write down the time of the bite and when the bandage was applied. Stay with the patient.
- Regularly check circulation in fingers or toes.
- Manage for shock.
- Ensure an ambulance has been called while staying with the patient.
Unlike many first aid kits that contain non-elastic crepe bandages, this kit has 10cm compression bandages that can maintain the correct pressure and will remain tight during transport of the victim. Three bandages are necessary to apply pressure to an adult males leg.
The included first aid booklet can also equip you with the know-how to handle bites and stings from the following deadly Australian creatures:
- Land, sea and burrowing snakes,
- Funnel web spiders,
- Blue ringed octopus, and
- Cone shells.
