What Should You Do if Bitten by a Venomous Snake?
When bitten by a venomous snake, go to the hospital immediately. Regardless of the severity of the venom, the wound still needs to be treated to prevent infection. Children and small animals are also more at risk for harm, considering their size and higher likelihood of accidentally stumbling upon a venomous snake.
If bitten,
- Do not panic. This is extremely important. Remaining calm and aware will allow everyone including yourself to help the bite victim most effectively.
- Try grounding techniques of deep breathing or environmental awareness if you find yourself panicking.
- Call 911 immediately and find active transport to the nearest hospital.
- Move the bite victim away from the area where they were bitten to an area where there are no snakes and try to keep them calm.
- Do NOT disinfect the bite wound, apply ice or heat, or suck the venom out. These are proven to be ineffective and will likely cause further damage or infection of the wound.
- Wrap a constriction bandage above the bite, in between the bite and the victim's heart.
- This will stop the venom from spreading as quickly to the rest of the body, as the bite is most likely to be on the legs or arms of the victim.
- Draw a circle around the bite in marker to track the rate of swelling.
- This same technique can also be used for spider bites or other insect bites or unknown origin for the same reason.
- Keep constriction band on unless instructed otherwise by medical personnel.
- The constriction band may be uncomfortable, but especially if left on long term, the blood/fluids of the constricted limb may be toxic to return to the body.
Venomous Snakes Found in Southern Indiana
