Sunday, Nov 19, 2017 at 17:26
Actually, you ARE supposed to sit and wait (if at all possible).
As a long time bushwalker, an ex snake catcher and having completed remote outdoor
first aid courses, we were privy to some fairly specialised people and information.
You should always have those 2 compression bandages close by, when hiking, yes in your little pack with map, compass, water etc.
A PLB would be ideal of course, and what you do otherwise depends on circumstances, should you be unlucky enough to suffer a snake bite.
You should just get comfortable, find
shelter if possible and you don't have full bushwalking kit with tarp etc, food, ample water etc.
If you are envenomated at all, venom travels through the lymphatic system under the skin and enters the bloodstream at lymph nodes (groin, armpits, neck), the object of compression / immobilisation is to stop the movement, while not restricting blood flow.
Walking / limping will certainly aid the movement of the venom to the blood, so avoid movement at all costs.
Even movement of being carried or in a vehicle is not perfect, as your body moves the limb just moves to compensate with the bumps etc.
Venom breaks down within a reasonably short time in the body, the best advice was . . . keep the patient still and calm, comfortable and fed /
well hydrated as conditions require.
Monitor and record vitals, and be prepared to do CPR if needed, though in such a case it is probably not going to be something that will help much.
After 48 hours you can make a move to extract yourself to assistance, slowly as as calmly as possible.
Of course this is after you have eliminated all options like setting off a PLB, or sending one or 2 of the party to get help.
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