When treating a snake bite, what should you do with the infected limb to decrease the spread of venom?

When treating a snake bite, the best approach to decrease the spread of venom is to keep the affected limb still and immobilized. This helps to limit the movement of venom within the body. By not moving the limb, you prevent the venom from spreading through the tissues and lymphatic system, which can occur with increased activity or movement. Immobilization slows down the circulation of the venom and allows more time for medical treatment to be administered.

Keeping the limb elevated above the heart is generally not recommended because it can promote lymphatic drainage, potentially allowing the venom to spread more quickly. Similarly, placing the limb below the level of the heart may increase swelling and further circulation of the venom. Applying ice can cause additional issues, such as tissue damage and, unlike immobilization, does not effectively control the spread of venom within the body.