Snake bites contribute a lot to hospitalization in this country in most areas of Nepal especially the Terai and low lying areas where human contact with snakes is high. The initial, and timely, first aid can have a crucial effect in mitigating the complications and deaths that result from snake bites.
This article details the basic first aid measures that one should take upon discovering that he or she has been bitten by a snake. Such steps are guided by the best practices in medicine and are thus simple and suitable for implementation in rural and semi-urban situations. Without much delay let’s manoeuver straight to learning about the first aid treatment given for snake bites.
Here, a general guideline possibly in sequential manner to obey and abide to after being bitten by a snake:
1. Be Calm And Immobilize The Patient
The first move will be to calm the person down. Panic and going around can increase heartbeat and blood circulation, thus facilitating quick spreading of venom in the body. The patient needs to lie down and be still as possible. The limb of the affected one should be kept motionless and inactive. Do not move unnecessarily, that is, the bitten part.
2. Remove Constrictive Items
Try to get rid of the area near the bite of rings, bangles, watches or tight clothing as fast as possible. Swelling is common and wearing such items can also restrict blood flow or even further injure.
3.Immobilize The Limb
Immobilize the bitten limb using a cloth, splint or anything that is available. This slows movement of venom in the lymphatic system. The limb has to be at the same level or just below the heart. Avoid constricted bandage that will cut off blood flow.
4. Avoid Harmful Traditional Practices
Do not try to cut the bite to drain out the venom or apply ice. These actions do nothing and might make the injury even worse and lead to infection. Do not apply a tourniquet. Strong tourniquets have a potential to shut down the blood flow completely and can result in tissue damage or even amputation.
5. Do Not Try To Catch The Snake
There is no necessity to catch and kill the snake. If possible, try and recall its color, size and shape while avoidance of treatment for identification or retrieval of a snake is never acceptable. Treatment is symptom governed as opposed to being symptom verified.
6. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
It is important that one takes the patient to the nearest health post or hospitals without any delay. Just because the bite might not look too bad or even unpainful does not mean that it is safe. Venom effects may be slow in manifestation but they can lead to serious complications.
The only specific way to treat venomous bites is anti-snake venom and it has to be done under medical supervision. There is an increased chance of complications such as breathing difficulty, bleeding disorders, or even death in delaying the arrival at the medical facility.
7. Monitor the Patient
Monitor the condition of the transported patient while taking him to a hospital. Watch for symptoms such as:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Swelling near the bite site
- Blurred vision or drooping eyelids
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness or loss of consciousness
Such symptoms may hint at poisonous envenomation, and they will need immediate medical attention.
Common Venomous Snakes in Nepal
The medically important venomous snakes which occur in Nepal include:
- Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus)
- Indian Cobra (Naja naja)
- Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii)
- Green Pit Viper (Trimeresurus albolabris)
These species are able to induce neurotoxic or hemotoxic effects, and professional treatment is necessary. Identification of snake as to how do certain species of snakes look is helpful, however, identifying each and every type within the specie kingdom isn’t necessary.
Conclusion
Snake bites require immediate and proper first aid, followed by rapid transportation to a medical facility. Avoiding panic, immobilizing the patient, and not relying on traditional remedies are crucial first steps that can save lives. Proper community awareness and timely action can reduce the impact of snake bites in both urban and rural areas of Nepal. We hope you are now well aware and actively alert about the first aid treatment given for snake bites.
