First Aid and Management of Rattlesnake Bites (Part 2 of 2).

In brief: Rattlesnake bites are rarely fatal, but prevention is the best treatment. People who live in areas indigenous to rattlesnakes should take routine precautionary measures such as wearing boots and long pants. A person who encounters or is bitten by a snake should get away from it as soon as possible. First aid includes applying a constricting band and suction; incisions are not recommended. The victim should be transported to a medical facility as soon as possible. Medical management includes a history and physical examination and laboratory data, including blood coagulation studies and urinalysis. Intravenous antivenom is the mainstay of treatment.