Rattlesnakes are considered one of the common poisonous snakes. In areas where rattlesnakes are common, it is important to be familiar on how to provide first aid care especially among those who love to spend time outdoors or in the wilderness. There are important considerations to bear in mind when treating a rattlesnake bite.
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Identifying a rattlesnake
When going outdoors, you have to listen for a rattle. Rattlesnakes use their rattle as a threat to fend off both animals and humans. Once you hear the rattling warning, it means that a rattlesnake is close and you have to move with caution. Take note not to rely on this alone since some do not always warn using their rattle.
If you see a snake and uncertain if it is a rattlesnake or not, checking for a rattle on its tail is the fastest way to verify if it is a rattlesnake. Do not forget to check the head since rattlesnakes belong to pit vipers. Take note that pit vipers are characterized by their large, triangle-shaped heads that protrude from their slender necks. They also have heat-sensor pads or holes on either side of the head. Additionally, they also have elliptical eyes and a single row of scales beneath their tails.
Check the bite site
Initially, you have to inspect the area where the bite was delivered. In case the bite site starts to change in color and bulge, it simply means that it was bit by a poisonous snake. Check for blood from the bite site and take note of any bruising or pain in the bite site.
Do not look for the snake but pay attention for a rattle or check the tail and head. Take note that all rattlesnake bites are managed the same while the anti-venom is used is similar, thus you have to be familiar on the type of snake that caused the bite.
You have to transport that individual to the emergency department at the nearest hospital immediately. This is the best thing that you can do for an individual who sustained a bite from a rattlesnake. In case you are close to a doctor, bring the individual there right away. In case the hospital or doctor is far, you have to treat the bite first before driving to the hospital.
Caring for a rattlesnake bite
You have to wash the bite site using water and soap if available. Try to keep the infected area lower than the heart and immobilize it. When immobilizing the area, you can use a board, stick or any hard surface and do not attempt to move the area that has been bitten.
Important tips to bear in mind
If the individual is more than 30 minutes away from a doctor or hospital, you can utilize an extractor pump on the bite site if available. You can buy one at medical supply stores, camping gear stores and even in veterinary supply stores.
You should not use ice or anything cold on the bite site or stop the flow of blood to the affected area such as using a tourniquet.
If you have seen people sucking the poison from a snake bite, it is not advisable as well as cutting the bite site. These will only aggravate the injury even more.