What is the correct procedure to follow within a copperhead snake bite?
My neighbor was bitten by a copperhead on her foot. After 2 weeks, it's still swolen and very stinging. At the hospital, they did nothing--no antivenom, just "watched" it for 8 hours. Is there something here that should have/can be done if something close to this happens in the adjectives?
We're in NC.
Thanks
Answers: North Carolina copperheads tend to be mildly venomous, and can actually assassinate a small child or elderly person in poor form.
Your friend's injury is a good indication of how awful those snakes can be.
Clearly, the folks at the hospital considered your friend in obedient enough physical shape that they deemed intervention unnecessary. The toxin will eventually dissapate, and the swelling and pain will disappear.
Anytime you're faced near a venomous snakebite, you have to consider the size and type of snake (a small copperhead biting a healthy fully developed is quite different from a large wet moccasin biting a small child) and the overall health of the victim. ALWAYS obtain emergency help. Get to the emergency room, or call an ambulance. Always hang on to the victim calm and softness, so the venom doesn't spread quickly.
- Stuart
I enjoy a friend who was bitten by a copperhead a couple of years ago and I don't know if he was given antivenom, but he did own to keep going back to the hospital every week for several weeks to own blood work done. I think they were checking his kidney function. I hope your neighbor is sensation better soon. put ice on it or go to the emergency room, but try to save her off that foot so that the venom does not spread.