ANIMAL BITES – FIRST AID
Signs & Symptoms
- A bite mark.
- Bleeding.
Call the local emergency number if the wound is bleeding seriously or you suspect the animal might have rabies.
If possible, try to remember the animal’s appearance and where you last saw it. When you call the local emergency number, the dispatcher will direct the proper authorities, such as animal control, to the scene.
TREATMENT
- Control bleeding first if the wound is bleeding seriously.
- Do not clean serious wounds. The wound will be cleaned at a medical facility.
- If bleeding is minor, wash the wound with soap and water then irrigate with clean running tap water.
- Control any bleeding.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment to a minor wound, if the person has no known allergies or sensitivities to the medication, and cover the wound with a dressing.
- Watch for signals of infection.
- Conduct a Scene, Primary & Secondary Survey
- Casualty will need an anti-tetanus injection
- Clean the wound with soap & warm water
- The wound may need stitches
- Cover the wound with a clean, dry dressing
- Treat casualty for shock
- Call for help & EMS – transport to hospital