first responder · paramedic · snake bite ·

Snake Season: What Every First Responder Needs to Know

As we move into Spring, Aussie first responders face one of our most lethal environmental threats: venomous snakes. With Australia hosting 7 of the world's 10 most venomous snakes, proper snake bite management isn't just a skill—it's a critical capability that can mean the difference between life and death.

The Critical First Minutes

Experience in the field has taught us that the initial response window is crucial. Just like managing catastrophic haemorrhage in tactical situations, the first actions taken after a snake bite can dramatically influence patient outcomes. Australian snake venom can be devastatingly effective, capable of causing:

  • Rapid neurotoxic effects leading to respiratory failure
  • Coagulopathy similar to severe trauma cases
  • Myotoxicity resulting in acute kidney injury

Remember! Your patient might not present with classic symptoms, however there are a few high-risk indicators of venomous snake bites.

 

High-Risk Indicators:

  • Obvious or subtle puncture marks
  • Rapid onset of systemic symptoms, including:
    • severe localized pain,
    • rapid progression of swelling around the bite area,
    • blurred or double vision,
    • nausea and vomiting,
    • difficulty breathing or shortness of breath,
    • dizziness or confusion (including slurred speech),
    • muscle weakness or paralysis.
  • Bleeding from the bite site or elsewhere in the body.
  • Coagulopathy (signs of blood clotting disorders, such as persistent bleeding or bruising).
  • Changes in urine colour (dark or red urine).

 

Critical Signs & Symptoms:

  • Neurological deterioration (similar to TBI assessment)
  • Hemodynamic changes
  • Respiratory compromise
  • Lymphatic involvement in the affected area

 

Modern Treatment Protocol

The following protocol aligns with current Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines and best practices per October 2024. Always remember to stay up to date with evolving protocols, current training and equipment familiarisation!

Primary Response:

  • Scene Safety Assessment
    • Conduct scene safety assessment
    • Ensure no additional bite risk
    • Move patient to safe area if necessary
    • Call for immediate emergency response and evacuation (if not currently available)
  • Patient Assessment & Stabilization
    • Follow standard C-ABC protocol - focus on airway and breathing (neurotoxic effects)
    • Initiate resuscitation if required
    • Keep patient calm and strictly minimize movement

 

Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT):

Recent studies show that many first responders apply PIT incorrectly. Let’s go over how to get it right.

  • Apply direct pressure over the bite site immediately
  • Use a broad pressure bandage (10-15cm width preferred)
  • Mark bite location and time on bandage
  • Bandage entire limb (distal to proximal)
  • Maintain consistent pressure (similar to haemorrhage control)
  • Apply splint to immobilise completely (as you would a fracture)
 

What NOT to do:

  • Cut or incise the bite site
  • Apply arterial tourniquets
  • Wash or attempt to suck venom
  • Attempt to catch/kill snake
  • Remove clothing under bandages
  • Allow patient to walk or move

 

Evacuation Considerations:

  • Activate EMS/HEMS immediately
  • Maintain complete immobilisation during transport
  • Consider shortest time to definitive care
  • Prepare for potential respiratory compromise

 

Critical Information to Record:

  • Time of bite
  • Time of PIT application
  • Patient symptoms and progression
  • Any patient movement/exertion
  • Description of snake (take a photo, if safely possible)

 

Equipment Considerations:

Your snake bite kit should integrate with your existing medical load-out. Essential components:

Other Special Considerations:

  • Bites to head/neck/torso: Apply direct pressure only
  • Paediatric cases: Higher risk of rapid deterioration
  • Remote locations: Consider early HEMS activation
  • Multiple casualties: Standard triage protocols apply

 

The Bottom Line

When it comes to venomous snake bites, the difference between a good and bad outcome often comes down to preparation and training. Like any critical medical intervention—whether it's managing a tension pneumothorax or packing a junctional wound—snake bite management is a skill that degrades without regular practice and current protocols. In the field, you're not just applying a bandage—you're managing a critical patient. 

Be prepared for the unexpected. Equip yourself with TacMed Australia's purpose-built Snake Bite Kit – because in the Australian outdoors, readiness isn't just smart, it's essential.

 Your preparedness is our mission. Take the initiative today:

 

Stay safe,

Team TacMed

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