While providing first aid for a poisonous snakebite on the right lower leg, which action should the nurse implement first?

While providing first aid for a poisonous snakebite on the right lower leg, which action should the nurse implement first?

• A. Remove the client's right shoe
• B. Instruct the client to lie very still
• C. Immobilize the client's right leg
• D. Keep the client warm as possible

Answer: (B)

Limiting venom spread is the key idea. In a poisonous snakebite, the fastest way venom can reach the rest of the body is through movement, so the first action is to keep the person very still. Instructing the client to lie very still reduces muscular activity and lymphatic flow, slowing the venom’s distribution and buying time for definitive care. After ensuring stillness, immobilize the affected leg with a rigid splint to prevent further movement and seek urgent medical care. Avoid actions that can worsen spread or tissue damage, such as warming the area, applying ice, making incisions, or using a tourniquet. Removing restrictive items or footwear can be done as swelling evolves, but the primary priority is maintaining stillness to limit venom absorption.

Limiting venom spread is the key idea. In a poisonous snakebite, the fastest way venom can reach the rest of the body is through movement, so the first action is to keep the person very still. Instructing the client to lie very still reduces muscular activity and lymphatic flow, slowing the venom’s distribution and buying time for definitive care. After ensuring stillness, immobilize the affected leg with a rigid splint to prevent further movement and seek urgent medical care. Avoid actions that can worsen spread or tissue damage, such as warming the area, applying ice, making incisions, or using a tourniquet. Removing restrictive items or footwear can be done as swelling evolves, but the primary priority is maintaining stillness to limit venom absorption.