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Bites to the lower limb
Call 000 for an ambulance
Apply a broad pressure bandage over the bite site as soon as possible. Crepe bandages are ideal, but any flexible material may be used. Clothing, towels etc may be torn into strips. Panty hose have been successfully used.
Do not take clothing off as the movement of doing so will promote the movement of venom into the blood stream. Keep the patient (and the bitten or stung limb) still.
Bandage upwards from the lower portion of the bitten or stung limb. Even though a little venom may be squeezed upwards, the bandage will be more comfortable, and therefore can be left in place for longer if required.
The bandage should be as tight as you would apply to a sprained ankle.
Extend the bandage as high as possible up the limb.
Apply a splint to the leg. Any rigid object may be used as a splint. e.g. spade, piece of wood or tree branch, rolled up newspapers etc.
Bind it firmly to as much of the leg as possible.
Keep the patient still. Lie the patient down to prevent walking or moving around. Have the patient taken immediately by ambulance to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.
(Images: Pressure-immobilisation, courtesy of the Australian Venom Research Unit)
Bites to the hand or forearm
Call 000 for an ambulance
Bandage as much of the arm as possible, starting at the fingers
Use a splint to the elbow
Use a sling to immobilise the arm
Keep the patient still. Lie the patient down to prevent walking or moving around. Have the patient taken immediately by ambulance to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.
Bites to the trunk
Call 000 for an ambulance
If possible apply firm pressure over the bitten or stung area. Do not restrict chest movement. Keep the patient still. Have the patient taken immediately by ambulance to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.
Bites to the head or neck
Call 000 for an ambulance
No first aid for bitten or stung area. Keep the patient still. Have the patient taken immediately by ambulance to the emergency department of the nearest hospital. |
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