ANIMAL OR HUMAN BITE

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR MINOR ANIMAL BITE

1. Bleeding: For any bleeding, apply continuous pressure for 10 minutes.
2. Cleansing: Wash all wounds immediately with soap and water for 5 minutes. Scrub the wound enough to make it re-bleed a little. Also, flush vigorously under a faucet for a few minutes (Reason: can prevent many wound infections).
3. Antibiotic ointment: Apply an antibiotic ointment (e.g. Neosporin, Bacitracin) to the bite 3 times a day for three days.
4. Pain Medicine:  Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen for pain relief.
5. Expected Course: Most scratches, scrapes and other minor bites heal up fine in 3 to 5 days.
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Wound begins to look infected (redness, swelling, warmth, tender to touch, or red streaks)
   • You become worse or develop any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2004

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