Ch. 3 Toxicology Snakebite

Question 1

What classification are these snakes? 
Pit Viper
Rattlesnake
Water Moccasin
Copper head

Answer 1

Crotalids

Question 2

What classification are these snakes?

Coral Snake

Answer 2

Elapid

Question 3

Signs and symptoms of pit viper bite

Answer 3

1. fang marks
2. swelling and pain
3. bruising and blister formation, later necrosis
4. weakness, sweating and chills
5. nausea and perhaps vomiting
6. numbness and swollen lymph nodes

Question 4

Signs and symptoms of Elapid bite

Answer 4

1. local swelling
2. nausea, vomiting
3. dizziness, weakness, respiratory difficulty after 12 hours

Question 5

Worldwide treatment principles

Answer 5

1. scene safety - dont create another patient by trying to identify, capture or kill a snake
2. calm yourself and the patient - envenomation is not certain
3. immobilize the limb, avoid compression or constriction of the extremity
4. transport to definitive care. Treatment is antivenom and supportive care
5. document the signs and symptoms of envenomation
   to describe progression to physician
6. avoid unproven or discredited treatments that may harm the patient (tourniquets, ice, electricity, meat tenderizer, incision, suction)

Question 6

Prevention of snake bites

Answer 6

1. know fi you are traveling in snake country
2. dont pick up or corner a snake
3. avoid blind placement of hands and feet in suspect areas
4. avoid traveling at night without a light
5. familiarize yourself with local snake bite treatment recommendations when traveling internationally.