A pressure bandage slows the spread of venom in the body without stopping blood flow.
A tourniquet completely cuts blood supply — which is dangerous and can cause limb loss.
So we use pressure, NOT blockage.
Pressure Bandage Is Important
- Venom travels through lymphatic system, not through blood directly.
- A firm pressure bandage slows venom movement in lymph channels.
- This gives more time to reach the hospital safely.
Tie a Pressure Bandage
1️⃣ Start From Bite Area
Begin wrapping the bandage directly over the bite site.
Use:
- Crepe bandage
- Long cloth
- Dupatta
- Gauze
Anything clean and broad works.
2️⃣ Wrap Firm But Not Tight
The bandage should be: Firm like you wrap a sprain
Not tight like a tourniquet
You must be able to slide one finger under the bandage.
3️⃣ Cover The Entire Limb
Wrap from:
- Bite area → upward direction
- Continue covering entire leg/arm
- Go till the joints (knee/elbow)
This reduces venom movement in the whole limb.
4️⃣ Use Even Pressure
Keep pressure same throughout, not loose in one part and tight in another.
Don’t leave gaps.
5️⃣ Do Not Stop Blood Flow
Check these signs of too-tight bandage:
- Limb becomes blue
- Numbness
- No pulse in wrist/ankle
- Severe pain
If seen → loosen the bandage immediately.
6️⃣ Immobilize After Bandaging
After applying pressure bandage:
- Use a stick/splint
- Tie limb straight
- Do not allow any movement
Pressure bandage + immobilization = best first aid.
7️⃣ Do Not Remove The Bandage Till Hospital
Very important:
Only a doctor should remove the pressure bandage.
Removing early can suddenly speed venom spread.
Never Apply a Tourniquet
A tourniquet is:
- Very tight
- Cuts blood supply
- Causes tissue death
- Can lead to cutting the limb
Tourniquet = dangerous unless instructed by a trained professional.
