The immediate response to a rattlesnake bite is to get to the hospital as quickly as possible. While this is the logical answer many times rattlesnake encounters occur while in the wilderness. Since time is of the essence there are several do’s and don’ts when you or someone you know is bitten by a rattlesnake.


Steps

1. There are a lot of myths concerning snake bites and the proper treatment for them. Since the bites can become fatal, the treatment is very important.

Do Not

1. • Apply a tourniquet or tight band around the wound.
   • Apply cold packs or ice to the skin; it will not slow the spread of the venom.
   • Use your mouth to suction out the venom.
   • Consume alcohol, caffeine, aspirin or anything by mouth.
   • Run or panic, an increased heart rate will speed the venom through the blood system.
   • Attempt to catch the snake or bring it into the hospital.

Preparation

1. • Bring equipment in case of a snake encounter in the wilderness. Always carry water with you.
   • Should you encounter a snake and want to avoid it just simply walk away. Snakes attack humans only out of self defense: so it will not follow you.
   • A snake bite kit or a first aid kit is essential when walking through the wilderness. Poisonous snake bites are not easily identifiable. Most will have one or more fang marks where the venom was discharged. The victim should feel a burning pain at the site of the snake bite, there should also be a considerable amount of swelling.

Do

1. • Identify the species of snake, make sure that it is a rattlesnake.
   • Move the victim away from the snakes striking distance to prevent any further bites.
   • Keep victim down, still and calm.
   • Remove all clothing or jewelry that may become constrictive, swelling may become a problem with any constricting articles of clothing.
   • Wash the wound with water.
   • Immobilize the bite with a sling or some sort of non-constricting object.
   • Suction the wound, only if you have a snake bite kit. Do Not use your mouth as a suction.
   • Keep the wounded area lower than heart level, but do not allow it to hang down.
   • Transport victim to the nearest medical facility for anti-venom.

Caution

1. • Snakes are very quite creatures and there a few tips which may help reduce the risks of a snake bite while in the wilderness. It is always good to know a little preventative tips before entering the wild.
     
     
   • Avoid reaching under rocks or into crevasses. Snakes will often hide under them to get out of the sun.
   • Check boots, sleeping bags and backpacks thoroughly prior to putting them on.
   • Sleep in tents and make sure they are zipped up at all areas so a snake cannot get in.
   • Shake out shoes and clothing each morning before putting them on.
   • Make noise while you walk, it will scare the snakes away.
   • Identification of the proper snake is vitally important. Should the wrong anti-venom be given do to a misidentification of species of snake, the results will almost assuredly be fatal.