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you are correct... it is a copperhead...sorry it brings back memories for some.
as said before, it is very rarely a fatal injury...just painful. About 8000 snake bites a year of varying types of snakes with about 0.2% being fatal. (Not copperheads but other variety)
as for treatment...most have been mentioned.
Immobilize to lessen the spreading of the venom. After about 20-30 minutes the venom will localize within the wound. So if you can avoid having someone walk who has just been bitten it is advised to wait the 30 minutes....obviously depends on the situation.
remove all bracelets, rings, watches, etc that can become constricting as the extremity swells because it will swell...that includes boots.
as mentioned wrap tightly but not too tightly. You don't want to cut off arterial flow. The wrap needs to be reassessed frequently because it can start off loose enough but quickly become tight with the increased swelling on will expect.
Pain control would be nice...
no cutting or sucking of venom...doesn't work and cutting may actually increase the spread of the venom.
Icing is questionable as recent studies show it may make the wounds worse and not help to decrease the spread.
just a side note...when do you consider antivenom? I know you would not carry it in the field...just asking.
doc t.
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