Dog Bite Management Overview of First Aid, Treatment & Prophylaxis
Introduction • Dog bites are common medical emergencies • Range from minor scratches to deep wounds • Risk of infection, tetanus, and rabies • Proper management reduces complications
Immediate First Aid • Wash wound with running water and soap for 15 minutes • Avoid tight closure of wounds • Control bleeding with gauze • Apply antiseptic (povidone-iodine/chlorhexidine)
Medical Management • Assess wound depth and tissue involvement • Antibiotics: Amoxicillin–clavulanate (first line) • Alternatives: doxycycline, moxifloxacin, clindamycin+ciprofloxacin • Tetanus prophylaxis if needed
Rabies Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) • Category I: Touching/licks on intact skin → No PEP • Category II: Minor scratches/abrasions → Vaccine • Category III: Deep bites, mucosal exposure → Vaccine + Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) • Observe domestic dog for 10 days
Follow-up & Monitoring • Monitor wound for infection (redness, pus, swelling) • Surgical consult if tendon/nerve involvement • Continue full vaccination schedule • Educate patient about prevention