How to treat a snake bite | St John WA | First Aid Facts

Snake bites are not common in Australia, but all should be treated as life-threatening. Snakes force venom out under pressure through fangs in the upper jaw. The spread of snake venom depends on its absorption through the lymphatic system.

What to do:
1. Follow DRSABCD St John Action Plan.
2. Urgent medical aid. Call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance.
3. Ensure the casualty does not move.
4. Lay the casualty down, rest and reassure.
5. If the bite is on a limb, apply a broad pressure bandage over the bite site as soon as possible.
6. Then apply a further elasticised or firm bandage - start at fingers or toes and move up the limb as far as can be reached. Apply tightly but without stopping blood flow.
7. Splint the limb including the joints on either side of the bite.
8. Write down the time that the casualty was bitten and when the bandage was applied.
9. If the casualty becomes unconscious and not breathing normally, Commence CPR and Defibrillation.

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