Although the anaconda is a thicker, heavier snake, some pythons are the world's longest snakes. The reticulated python of Southeast Asia has an average length of up to 4 to 6 meters (13 to 21 feet), the largest measuring 9.7 meters (nearly 32 feet).
One of the most common drugs used in the labour ward is pethidine, a synthetic, addictive, narcotic drug that is similar to morphine. In Britain it is also known as meperidine, and in America it is known as Demerol.
Narcotics carry with them the potential for side effects and addiction. However, the risk of addiction is not normally a concern in the care of terminal patients. For hospitalized patients with severe pain, devices for self-administration of narcotics are frequently used. Other procedures can also be useful in pain management programs. For bedridden patients, simply changing position regularly or using pillows to support a more comfortable posture can be effective.