Keeping the bitten hand or leg still prevents the venom from traveling fast in the body. Movement pumps venom into the bloodstream quickly — so stopping movement saves life.
🔵 Immobilization Is Important
- Every time the patient walks, moves, or bends, the heart pumps faster.
- Faster pumping → venom spreads quickly → more danger.
- Keeping the limb still buys time until reaching the hospital.
How To Immobilize the Limb
1️⃣ Make The Patient Sit Or Lie Down
Ask the patient to lie flat or sit comfortably.
No running, no walking.
2️⃣ Keep The Bite Lower Than Heart
Keep the bitten hand/leg downward so venom moves slowly.
3️⃣ Use A Splint To Stop Movement
A splint means any straight object you use to fix the limb in one place.
You can use:
- Wooden stick
- Bamboo
- A thick cardboard
- Rolled newspaper
- A long piece of cloth
Tie it along the limb to keep it from bending.
4️⃣ Tie Firm But Not Tight
Use a cloth/dupatta/crepe bandage to tie the splint.
Firm enough to prevent movement
NOT tight enough to stop blood flow
(You should be able to slide one finger under the cloth.)
5️⃣ Do Not Move The Joint
Joints like:
- Knee
- Elbow
- Wrist
- Ankle
Must stay straight and still. Movement spreads venom fastest.
6️⃣ Avoid Massaging Or Touching
Do NOT massage, press, or move the bite area.
7️⃣ Keep Patient As Still As Possible
Tell the patient:
- No talking loudly
- No panic
- No unnecessary hand/leg movement
- No walking on their own
Carry them if possible.
