North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

Which symptom is commonly associated with a pit viper bite?

1. Rash

2. Severe swelling and tissue damage

3. Neurological symptoms

4. Hair loss

The correct answer is: Severe swelling and tissue damage

Severe swelling and tissue damage is a hallmark symptom associated with a pit viper bite. When a pit viper, such as a rattlesnake, copperhead, or cottonmouth, delivers venom through its fangs, the venom contains enzymes and other compounds that can cause significant local tissue destruction and inflammation. This results in pronounced swelling at the site of the bite, often accompanied by severe pain. The damage can extend beyond just localized swelling and can lead to necrosis of the surrounding tissues if not treated adequately and promptly. Other symptoms may arise from the systemic effects of the venom, such as coagulopathy or shock, but the immediate and most visually apparent sign after a pit viper bite is typically the severe swelling and damage to the tissues surrounding the bite site. This symptom serves as a critical indicator for emergency medical personnel in assessing the severity of the injury and the necessary interventions required to treat the patient effectively.