The information contained in this section is intended to help guide the health professional in the assessment of the patient who presents with history, signs or symptoms suggesting envenomation. Since information provided here cannot be considered a substitute for first-hand clinical experience, and because cases may differ from the norm, it should be kept in mind that this is intended as a guide only.

1. First aid. Ensure appropriate first aid is in place. First aid measures should only be removed once supportive measures are to hand, including appropriate antivenom (quantity and type specific to treat envenomation) and other drugs such as adrenaline, and the results of investigations have been seen and documented.

2. Triage. Envenomed patient should be category 2 unless resuscitation is required.

3. History. Patient history particularly relevant to envenomation.

4. Examination. Signs and symptoms suggesting envenomation or pertinent to assessing condition.

5. Laboratory Tests. Relevant lab findings. Where no lab tests are available it is useful to remember the 20-minute whole blood clotting test as a practical guide to coagulation status.

6. Differential Diagnoses.