Three factors that determine the outcome of a Snake Bite - The bite, the First Aid, Antivenom.
1. The Bite:
You might say, “well I have no control over that”, but is that true? Certainly, the decision to bite lies with the Snake, but what were we doing at the time? What were we wearing? We can definitely influence the decision of the snake and we can take responsibility for our own actions.
- NEVER try to kill a snake (they are protected nationwide). Many, many bites occur when people are trying to kill or catch a snake. There are enough qualified snake catchers in Australia who would love the opportunity to remove the snake for you.
- Be careful where you walk. If you’re walking through long grass, dense bush, rain forest etc. you should expect to encounter wildlife. But don’t think it can’t happen around the home. At least half of bites occur around the home.
- If you’re concerned, wear the thickest long sleeve clothing you can. Thick boots and gators will help but, but despite the relatively short fangs on Australian snakes, nothing is guaranteed.
2. First Aid:
The sole aim of correct First Aid is to keep the bite victim alive, well enough, long enough the reach a medical facility to receive antivenom.
- The correct and timely application of a SMART Compression Snake Bite Bandage is essential. The goal is to trap venom at the bite site and prevent it from moving through the lymphatic system. A torniquet is NOT suitable for this purpose.
- It is also essential that the bite victim remain as still as possible and not move under their own power. This engages the lymphatic system, via muscle contraction, and negates the effectiveness of the SMART Compression bandage. A splint may be necessary.
- If there are more than two people present, one can call 000 while another applies the bandage. If there are only two, or even one, apply the bandage FIRST, then call 000. The time it takes to call 000 and organise pick up is time venom can move through the body. Stop the venom then call 000.
3. Antivenom:
Antibodies, produced by injecting gradually increasing amounts of venom into various animals large enough to metabolise the venom, and withdrawing their blood. The antibodies are then removed from the blood and when injected, attach to the venom molecules and neutralize them.
- Antivenom can only be administered with qualified medical staff available to monitor patient reactions. As the antivenom is produced from the blood of animals, some patients may experience allergic reactions that will need immediate medical intervention.
- If the antivenom is to be effective, adequate and immediate first aid is essential. A large percentage of those who die from Snake Bite, do so DESPITE receiving the antivenom. This is often due to the initial health of the victim, frailty, or too much time elapsing between the bite, application of the compression bandage and provision of antivenom. There are few guarantees but the correct application of the SMART Compression Bandage is your best bet.
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