Snake Envenomation In Austere Environments

Prolonged Field Care Podcast

In this episode of the Prolonged Fuel Care Podcast, Dr. Ben Abo and Jordan Benjamin discuss snake envenomation. They debunk common myths about snakebite treatment, such as using tourniquets, extractors, ice, or cutting into the wound. They emphasize the importance of preparing for deployment in snake-infested areas by researching the local hazards and having the appropriate equipment. They provide a standardized snake bite assessment method, which involves a bottom-up top-down approach to identify the type of venom and the severity of the envenomation. They also discuss the decision-making process for airway management and the use of antivenom. The solution to snakebite envenomation is early and appropriate treatment with antivenom. It is important to irrigate the bite site and dilute the venom as quickly as possible. The use of tourniquets is not recommended, and if one is already applied, it should be slowly released. Pain management is crucial, and opioids and ketamine are effective options. Monitoring the progression of symptoms is more important than assigning a grade to the envenomation. Early intervention and proper training in snakebite management can lead to better outcomes.

Takeaways

Do not use tourniquets, extractors, ice, or cutting into the wound for snakebite treatment.

Research the local hazards and have the appropriate equipment when deploying to snake-infested areas.

Use a standardized snake bite assessment method to identify the type of venom and the severity of the envenomation.

Make decisions about airway management based on the patient's symptoms and use tools like capnography and pulse oximetry.

Antivenom is the key treatment for snake envenomation, and there are no absolute contraindications to its administration. The solution to snakebite envenomation is early and appropriate treatment with antivenom

Irrigate the bite site and dilute the venom as quickly as possible

Avoid using tourniquets, but if one is already applied, slowly release it

Pain management is crucial, and opioids and ketamine are effective options

Monitor the progression of symptoms rather than assigning a grade to the envenomation

Early intervention and proper training in snakebite management can lead to better outcomes

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