The Addo Elephant Trail Runs

First Aid for Bites and Stings

SNAKE BITES

DO NOT:

1. Allow the person to become over-exerted.  If necessary, carry the person to safety.

2. Apply a tourniquet.

3. Apply cold compresses to a snake bite.

4. Cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor.

5. Try to suction the venom by mouth.

6. Give the person stimulants or pain medications unless instructed to do so by a doctor.

7. Give the person anything by mouth.

8. Raise the site of the bite above the level of the person’s heart.

DO:

1. Try to obtain a clear description of the snake.

2. Keep the person calm, reassuring them that bites can be effectively treated in an emergency room.

3. Restrict movement.

4. Keep the person as still as possible and immobilize the affected limb by splints e.g. straight branches on either side of limb.

5. Keep the affected area below the heart level to reduce the flow of venom.

6. Wrap a crepe or pressure bandage firmly around the area of the bite, covering the entire limb (from fingertip to armpit; from toe to groin).  Apply hand pressure at the site of the bite until a bandage or strips of fabric can be obtained.

7. If the snake spit’s in the person’s eyes, wash the eyes with large amounts of water, preferably by holding his head under a running tap.  If water is not available use any fluid (even urine) which is not harmful to eyes.

8. Remove any rings as affected limb will swell.

SCORPIONS

Identification:

Scorpions with small pincers and large tail are more poisonous than those with large pincers and small tails.

DON’T:

See above as for snake bites.

DO:

1. Apply ice to the affected area. See above as for snake bites.

2. Get medical help ASAP!!!

Dr Charl Malherbe