Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

7 Bleeding, Wound Care and Trauma

If the snake was killed during the confrontation, it is still dangerous. Even a completely severed snake head can retain a bite reflex for many hours afterwards. People and animals have been bitten by a ‘dead’ snake many times. Wear gloves and take precautions to protect yourself from any venom on the patient’s skin surface or clothing. Carefully assess the wound and the signs and symptoms during the primary assessment for any life threat as venom may cause difficulty breathing. The rattlesnake injects its venom through two hollow fangs. A snakebite may be one or two puncture wounds. Usually some amount of venom is injected. Depending on the amount of venom injected, a patient may experience any of the following signs:

Signs and Symptoms Rattlesnake venom

• Burning sensation • Swelling and bruising around the bite • Severe pain

• Weakness • Sweating • Nausea • Chills • Difficulty breathing

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