Snakes, scorpions and other poisonous creatures: prophylaxis and emergency medicine
Mebs, D.
MMW Fortschritte der Medizin 148(26): 31-34
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1438-3276 PMID: 16875375 Document Number: 595269
Most cases of poisoning by animals are caused by snakes, spiders or scorpions. In addition to"first aid" such as calming the victim and immobilization of the bitten limb, other measures include monitoring vital functions and rapid transportation to hospital as dictated by the symptoms presenting, and, where indicated, injection of an antiserum (identification of the animal concerned). On no account should the bite wound be cut or attempts made to suck out the venom. While the sting of a scorpion or a spider bite often do not lead to severe complications in adults, a brush with a poisonous snake may be much more serious.