Which snakebite would require the implementation of priority nursing intervention to ensure that the client's airway is patent and resuscitation equipment is immediately available?

• A. Rattlesnake
• B. Coral snake
• C. Copperhead
• D. Cottonmouth

Answer: (B)

A bite from a coral snake can produce neurotoxic effects that rapidly impair the nerves controlling the muscles used for breathing, including the diaphragm. Because airway patency and adequate ventilation can deteriorate quickly, the highest-priority nursing action is to secure and protect the airway and have resuscitation equipment immediately available. Coral snake venom mainly affects the nervous system, leading to weakness, ptosis, dysphagia, slurred speech, and eventually respiratory distress if not promptly managed. In contrast, the venoms of rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths are primarily hemotoxic or cytotoxic, causing swelling, tissue damage, and coagulation problems more than immediate respiratory paralysis, so airway emergencies are less likely to appear as quickly. Therefore, coordinating airway readiness and resuscitation preparedness is the critical first step for a coral snake bite.