| Title: |
Snakes are waking up. What should you do if you're bitten? And what if you're a long way from help? |
| Authors: |
Bradley, Hamish; Richardson, Alice; Spring, Breeanna |
| Source: |
Conversation (Conversation Media Group Ltd); 9/30/2024, p1-1, 1p, 3 Color Photographs |
| Subject Terms: |
Snakebites; Snake venom; Health services accessibility; Compression bandages; Venom |
| Abstract: |
Snake season is beginning in Australia, with snakes and humans becoming more active in the outdoors. While the risk of being bitten by a snake is small, knowing basic first aid is important. Snake bite envenomation is a significant issue in Australia, with 3,000 cases annually and an average of two deaths. Australian standard first aid guidelines include calling for help, applying a pressure immobilisation bandage, and resting. Snake venom is carried within the lymphatic system, so immobilisation is vital to slow the spread of venom. People living in rural and remote locations may have limited access to healthcare and antivenom. A study found that 45% of snake bite victims continued to move around following the bite, raising questions about knowledge of first aid guidelines and access to healthcare. Basic snake bite first aid education and innovative healthcare solutions are needed for rural and remote Australians. [Extracted from the article] |
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| Database: |
Complementary Index |