Standard Things to Do When Bitten

When you’re bitten by an animal, it can be a terrifying and confusing experience. Knowing what to do immediately after the bite can help prevent infection and other complications. Here’s a detailed guide on the standard things you should do when bitten.

Assess the Situation

After a bite, the first thing you should do is assess the situation. Look at the bite to determine its severity. If the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or if there are signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus, seek medical attention immediately.

Wash the Wound

Even if the bite is minor, it’s important to clean the wound thoroughly. Rinse the wound with clean, running water for at least 15 minutes. You can also use mild soap to help remove any dirt or debris. If you have antiseptic wipes or a disinfectant solution, apply it to the wound after rinsing.

Apply Pressure to Stop Bleeding

If the wound is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. Elevate the wound if possible to reduce blood flow. Do not remove the bandage until the bleeding has stopped.

Seek Medical Attention

For all animal bites, it’s important to seek medical attention. This is especially true if the bite is deep, the animal is unknown, or if you have a weakened immune system. The doctor will assess the wound, clean it, and may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

Report the Bite

Report the bite to your local health department. They will keep a record of the incident and may provide additional guidance on how to proceed. If the bite was caused by a wild animal, the health department may also need to test the animal for rabies.

Keep the Bite Clean and Dry

After cleaning the wound, keep it clean and dry. Change the bandage or dressing regularly to prevent infection. Avoid soaking the wound in water, as this can introduce bacteria.

Monitor for Signs of Infection

Keep an eye on the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, fever, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Prevent Rabies

Although rabies is rare in the United States, it’s still important to take precautions. If the bite was from a wild animal, the health department may recommend a series of rabies vaccinations. Follow their guidance closely to ensure your safety.

Table: Factors to Consider When Bitten by an Animal

Factor	Description
Severity of the Bite	Deep, bleeding, or infected wounds require immediate medical attention.
Animal’s Identity	Unknown or wild animals may carry diseases like rabies.
Immune System Status	People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections.
Location of the Bite	Bites on extremities may be more difficult to clean and monitor.

Prevent Future Bites

Take steps to prevent future bites. Keep pets up to date on vaccinations and training. Avoid approaching wild animals, and teach children to stay away from unknown animals.

By following these standard steps, you can help ensure a safe and healthy recovery after a bite. Remember, it’s always better to be cautious and seek medical attention if you’re unsure about the severity of the bite.