snakebite

snakebite The bite of a snake, whether poisonous or not. Most snakes are not poisonous, but their bites can nonetheless cause painful puncture wounds that require treatment. If a snakebite victim knows a snake was poisonous, or if the person did not see or recognize the snake, he or she should immediately seek emergency treatment. The affected part should be kept immobile and below the level of the heart, and the bite victim should be taken to the nearest hospital. A tourniquet or bandage should not be used on a snakebite, and no one should attempt to suction out the wound by mouth. Treatment involves use of antivenom and care for the puncture wound itself and any symptoms that emerge, such as respiratory distress. See also rattlesnake bite.