skip to main content

Brown Snake Envenomation — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardEmergency PaediatricsBrown Snake EnvenomationRACP Paediatrics

A 5-year-old is bitten by a brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis) in rural Australia. He develops coagulopathy (INR >10, undetectable fibrinogen). What is the specific treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Brown snake antivenom (polyvalent or monovalent)

Brown snake envenomation (most common cause of snakebite death in Australia): causes venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy (VICC). Treatment includes pressure-immobilisation first aid, antivenom (monovalent preferred if snake identified, polyvalent if not), and supportive care. FFP may be needed if coagulopathy does not correct with antivenom.

Reference: Therapeutic Guidelines – 2024 – Toxicology: Snake Envenomation