Snakebite management in Iran: Devising a protocol.

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Emergency Medicine
• Clinical Protocol Development

Background:

• Snakebite envenomation poses a significant health concern in Iran.
• Current snakebite management lacks standardization, leading to practice variations across medical centers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive, evidence-based protocol for snakebite management in Iran.
• To reduce practice variations and improve the consistency of care for snakebite victims.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature search was conducted, reviewing 50 peer-reviewed articles, guidelines, and textbooks.
• An existing protocol was enhanced with extracted information and refined through focus group discussions with medical toxicologists and specialists.
• Expert physician input was incorporated to optimize the protocol for diverse medical considerations.

Main Results:

• A six-step protocol was finalized over a one-year period.
• The protocol includes a schematic algorithm, a severity grading scale, and guidelines for supportive/adjunctive treatments.
• The algorithm addresses both Viperidae and Elapidae snakebites, detailing antivenom administration based on envenomation severity.

Conclusions:

• Snakebite envenomation is a critical medical emergency requiring timely and organized treatment.
• The developed protocol aims to enhance clinical outcomes and guide physicians in making appropriate treatment decisions.
• The protocol is designed to minimize unnecessary antivenom administration and standardize management strategies.