How to Treat Snake Bites in the Wilderness

Wilderness treatment of snake bites involves immobilization of the extremity, treatment of the wound and evacuation.

Things You'll Need

  • Evacuation Plan
  • Wilderness First Aid Classes
  • Antibacterial Soaps
  • Elastic Bandage Tapes
  • Elastic Bandages
  • Evacuation Insurance
  • Sawyer Extractor
  • Inflatable Splints
  • Elastic bandages
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Instructions

    • 1

      Move away from the snake and ensure safety of the scene to prevent additional bites.

    • 2

      Calm the patient down and keep him or her still and quiet.

    • 3

      Elevate the bite at or below the level of the heart.

    • 4

      Remove any jewelry or other articles which may constrict with swelling.

    • 5

      Suction immediately with a Sawyer Extractor, ideally within three minutes after the patient has been bit.

    • 6

      Clean the wound thoroughly with an antiseptic soap or solution (See "How to Clean a Wound").

    • 7

      Dress the wound with a snug dressing using an elastic bandage (See "How to Dress a Wound").

    • 8

      Splint the extremity (See related eHows on splinting).

    • 9

      Keep the patient well-hydrated.

    • 10

      Evacuate immediately, preferably without any effort on the part of the patient. An ideal evacuation would involve sending others to arrange for a helicopter evacuation.