Snakebite Emergency: Immediate First Aid Before Hospital Care

A venomous snake

Following the tragic passing of the promising Ifunanya Nwangene, Premium Medicare Service believes it is important to educate the public. 

Out of respect for the family and loved ones, details should not be speculated upon. What can be said, however, is this: snakebite emergencies require effective first aid in the moments following a snakebite.  Immediate medical guidance, reduced movement of the victim, and rapid access to antivenom under professional supervision.

With timely medical attention and proper care, even bites from highly venomous snakes can be treated and survived.

Being able to speak to a qualified doctor immediately, receive real-time instructions, and coordinate emergency care while help is on the way can dramatically reduce complications and improve outcomes.

If this tragedy teaches us anything, it is that awareness, preparedness, and access to medical expertise must come before emergencies and not after them.

Snakebite Emergencies in Nigeria: What to Do While Help Is on the Way

Snakebites remain a serious public health concern in Nigeria, especially in rural and semi‑urban communities where encounters with snakes are more common. With the many different species of snakes, being able to identify the venomous kind from the harmless kind becomes a little difficult. 

However, there is always a list of common and dangerous snakes in Nigeria that you should be aware of. 

Nigeria records thousands of snakebite cases every year, particularly during the rainy season, when farming activity increases, and snakes are more likely to come into contact with humans. Limited access to nearby hospitals, long travel distances, traffic congestion, and shortages of antivenom mean that delays are common.

While there is no size-fit-all timeline, the typical time frame for a snake venom to run its course without quick medical intervention is within 7 to 15 hours.

Because it is not always possible to reach a hospital immediately, early medical guidance becomes essential. Telemedicine allows patients, families, or caregivers to speak with a doctor right away, regardless of location.

Every snakebite should be treated as a medical emergency, even if symptoms appear mild at first. 

What To Do Immediately After a Snakebite

If you suspect someone or yourself has been bitten by a snake, act as quickly as possible. This can save a life. 

Beyond the obvious step of moving the victim away from the snake to prevent another bite, there are several important measures you should take. Below are some key actions to follow: 

 1. Call a Doctor Immediately

The first step should be to contact a medical professional. Through telemedicine, a doctor can assess the situation, ask the right questions, and provide clear instructions while help is being organized.

 2. Minimize Movement

The victim should remain as still as possible. Movement increases blood circulation, which can cause venom to spread faster to the heart.

      ✓ Keep the bitten limb still and supported

      ✓ Avoid walking, running, or unnecessary movement

      ✓ If possible, lay the person down in a calm position. Avoid lying them flat on their back; the recovery position is safest in snakebite cases.

3. Do Not Use Harmful Home Remedies

All the “I heard that this and that works” should not be permitted. A snakebite incident is an emergency and should be treated as such. There is no room for experimenting. Some common practices can be dangerous and should be avoided:

 ✓  Cutting or sucking the bite

 ✓  Applying tourniquets

 ✓  Using herbs, chemicals, ice, or electricity

 ✓  Taking medications not prescribed by a doctor

These methods do not neutralize venom and may increase the risk of infection or tissue damage. Not to mention the risk of accelerating the venom distribution to every part of the body.

What is Premium Medicare Service Doing To Improve Snakebite Outcomes

Premium Medicare Service remains committed to the well-being of every individual. This is why we have long offered training to organizations and individuals on First Aid and CPR. In line with this commitment, here are some of the support services we provide in the event of a venomous snakebite:

1.  Assess symptoms in real time

2.  Guide safe immobilization of the affected limb

3.  Monitor warning signs of envenomation

4.  Coordinate rapid access to antivenom

5.  Recommend immediate hospital referral when necessary

Instead of waiting without guidance, patients receive professional medical supervision from the moment the bite occurs.

It should be known that antivenoms are available within the country, and with the help of Premium Medicare Service, access would happen a lot faster. 

Snake envenoming can be life-threatening, but with the right support and timely treatment, it is treatable and survivable.

Being informed, prepared, and having quick access to care greatly improves outcomes. Join us in our mission to promote wellness for everyone. Reach out today!