Snake Bite
Management of suspected venomous snake bite: immobilise, watch for neurotoxic and haemotoxic signs, give antivenom on clear indications, and never rely on traditional first aid. Follow the national snakebite guideline.
Checklist— tick steps as you go
0/19 steps done
1First aid (and what NOT to do)
2Assess for envenomation
3Antivenom
4Support and refer
Decision flowchart
Suspected snake bite arrives
Immobilise limb, remove rings, IV access; no cutting or tourniquet
Neurotoxic signs? (ptosis, dysphagia, weakness)
Yes
Antivenom 10 vials IV over 1 h; adrenaline ready at bedside
Breathing failing?
Yes
Bag-valve-mask ventilation; urgent referral with BVM en route
Repeat 20WBCT at 6 h; more antivenom if still incoagulable
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
No
Repeat 20WBCT at 6 h; more antivenom if still incoagulable
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
No
20WBCT: blood clotted at 20 min?
Yes
Observe 24 h: hourly swelling marks and neuro checks
New signs during observation?
Yes
Antivenom 10 vials IV over 1 h; adrenaline ready at bedside
Breathing failing?
Yes
Bag-valve-mask ventilation; urgent referral with BVM en route
Repeat 20WBCT at 6 h; more antivenom if still incoagulable
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
No
Repeat 20WBCT at 6 h; more antivenom if still incoagulable
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
No
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
No
Antivenom 10 vials IV over 1 h; adrenaline ready at bedside
Breathing failing?
Yes
Bag-valve-mask ventilation; urgent referral with BVM en route
Repeat 20WBCT at 6 h; more antivenom if still incoagulable
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
No
Repeat 20WBCT at 6 h; more antivenom if still incoagulable
Discharge with advice or continue inpatient care
Educational guidance only — adapt to your resources, scope of practice and local policy. Last updated 12 August 2026.