CPR Kids - First Aid for Funnel Web Spider and Snake bites

Summary

The video discusses the immediate steps to take if a child is bitten by a venomous snake or funnel-web spider in Australia. Key actions include applying a pressure bandage to slow venom flow, keeping the child calm and still, and seeking urgent medical attention. Avoid using a tourniquet, cutting the bite area, or washing it. Immobilize the limb using available materials and do not move the child. The video emphasizes the importance of not removing clothing under the bandage and highlights the use of doctors ABC for resuscitation if needed.

Takeaways

• 🐍 Always presume a snake or funnel-web spider bite is poisonous and seek urgent medical attention.
• 🩹 Apply a pressure bandage to slow the venom flow through the lymphatic system.
• 🧘‍♂️ Keep the victim calm and still to lower heart rate and slow venom spread.
• 🚫 Do not apply a tourniquet; it is not effective and could cause harm.
• 🩺 Use a bandage with firm pressure, similar to strapping a sprained ankle, but not cutting off circulation.
• 🛌 Keep the victim lying down and avoid unnecessary movement.
• 👕 Bandage over clothing, starting just below the bite site and extending to the top of the limb, ensuring fingers or toes are exposed.
• 📚 Immobilize the limb using any available material (like a book or sticks) to prevent joint movement.
• 📞 Call for urgent medical assistance and avoid moving the victim unless absolutely necessary.
• ❌ Do not cut, wash, or suck the bite area; this allows medical professionals to perform venom detection.

Q & A

What is the general rule of thumb when it comes to venomous snakes and funnel-web spiders in Australia?

The general rule is to assume that any snake or funnel-web spider bite is from a venomous species and requires urgent medical attention.

What should be the first step if a child is bitten by a snake or funnel-web spider?

You should apply a pressure bandage and keep the child calm and as still as possible to slow the flow of venom.

Why is it important to keep the person calm and still after a snake or spider bite?

Keeping the person calm slows their heart rate, which helps to slow the flow of venom through their lymphatic system.

Why should you avoid using a tourniquet after a snake or spider bite?

A tourniquet cuts off circulation, but venom actually travels through the lymphatic system, not the bloodstream initially. A pressure bandage is more effective in slowing the venom's spread.

How should a pressure bandage be applied to a limb that has been bitten?

The pressure bandage should be applied firmly, like strapping a sprained ankle, starting just below the bite and continuing all the way to the top of the limb, leaving fingers or toes exposed.

What items can be used to immobilize the limb if bitten in a remote location?

In a remote location, you can use items like sticks, branches, or a book to splint the limb and prevent joint movement.

What should be done if the bitten person becomes unconscious?

If the person becomes unconscious, you should follow the DRS ABC emergency response (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR) and perform effective chest compressions if needed.

Why should you avoid washing or cutting the bite site?

You should not wash or cut the bite site because medical personnel may need to swab the area to identify the venom for treatment purposes.

What are the main principles of first aid for a snake or funnel-web spider bite?

The main principles are keeping the person calm and still, applying a pressure bandage from toes to hip (or fingers to shoulder), immobilizing the limb, and seeking urgent medical help.

Why is it important to avoid moving the person who has been bitten?

Moving the person can increase the flow of venom through the lymphatic system, so it is essential to keep them still until medical help arrives.