Question 13

The patient who had been bitten by the snake was given the antidote.

In cases of snake bites, administering the antidote is crucial to counteract the effects of venom. The antidote can neutralize the toxins, thereby mitigating the potential harm caused by the snake bite.

A) serum.

While serum may refer to a component of blood or a type of therapeutic agent, it is not specifically designed to counteract snake venom. Therefore, it is not the appropriate treatment for a snake bite.

B) antidote.

The antidote is the correct choice as it specifically refers to a substance that counteracts venom, neutralizing its toxic effects. In the context of a snake bite, the antidote is critical for patient recovery.

C) anodyne.

An anodyne is a medication used to relieve pain but does not address the underlying issue of snake venom toxicity. Thus, while an anodyne may help with discomfort, it is not an effective treatment for a snake bite.

D) antigen.

An antigen is a substance that induces an immune response, typically in the context of vaccines or infections, and is not used to treat snake bites. Therefore, it does not pertain to the treatment or management of snake venom.

Conclusion

The antidote is essential for treating snake bites, as it directly counters the effects of venom, while the other options either do not address the venom or are not relevant to the treatment of snake bites. This highlights the importance of administering the correct medical intervention in emergency situations involving venomous bites.