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Animal bites Rabies Rabies Animal bite Animal bite - first aid - series
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Animal bites
Alternative Names: Bites - animals First Aid: Calm and reassure the person. Wear latex gloves or wash hands thoroughly before attending to the wound. Wash hands afterwards as well. If the bite is not bleeding severely, wash the wound thoroughly with mild soap and running water for 3 to 5 minutes. Then, cover the bite with antibiotic ointment and a clean dressing. If the bite is actively bleeding, apply direct pressure with a clean, dry cloth until the bleeding subsides. Elevate the area of the bite. If the bite is on the hand or fingers, call the doctor right away. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, observe the bite for signs of infection (increasing skin redness, swelling, and pain). If the bite becomes infected, call the doctor or take the person to an emergency facility. Do Not: DO NOT go near an animal that may have rabies. DO NOT try to catch it yourself. Text Continues Below If an animal's behavior is strange, it may be rabid. Notify the proper authorities. The police can always direct you to the proper animal control authorities. Tell them what the animal looks like and where it is so they can capture it. Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if: Call 911 if the person has been seriously wounded -- for example, if the person is bleeding significantly and it will not stop with simple first aid measures. Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>