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SNAKE BITES |
DO NOT:
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Allow the person to become over-exerted. If necessary,
carry the person to safety.
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Apply a tourniquet.
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Apply cold compresses to a snake bite.
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Cut into a snake bite with a knife or razor.
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Try to suction the venom by mouth.
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Give the person stimulants or pain medications unless
instructed to do so by a doctor.
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Give the person anything by mouth.
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Raise the site of the bite above the level of the person’s
heart.
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DO:
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Try to obtain a clear description of the snake.
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Keep the person calm, reassuring them that bites can be
effectively treated in an emergency room.
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Restrict movement.
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Keep the person as still as possible and immobilize the
affected limb by splints e.g. straight branches on either side of limb.
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Keep the affected area below the heart level to reduce the
flow of venom.
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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.
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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.
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Remove any rings as affected limb will swell.
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SCORPIONS |
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Identification:
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DON’T:
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DO:
Dr Charl Malherbe |