An awake, conscious patient bitten on the leg by an unidentified snake shows two puncture marks with minimal pain and swelling. The appropriate management includes which of the following?

• A. transporting only with close, continuous monitoring.
• B. supine positioning, splinting the leg, and transporting.
• C. elevating the lower extremities and giving antivenin.
• D. applying ice to the wound and transporting quickly.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to slow venom spread and get definitive care quickly. Immobilizing the injured leg with a rigid splint prevents movement and muscle activity that can push venom through the lymphatic system toward the body, buying time for evaluation and potential antivenom. Keeping the patient in a supine position helps maintain a stable airway and circulation during transport, reducing the risk of deterioration while you arrange definitive care. Even if pain and swelling are minimal right now, envenomation can evolve, so prompt transport to a facility capable of assessing envenomation and providing antivenom is essential. Practices like elevating the limb, applying ice, or attempting to treat with antivenom in the field are not appropriate for field management and can delay proper care.