This week we talk about mammal bites - dogs, cats and humans - with a focus on wound closure, antibiotics and rabies prophylaxis.
Core EM - Emergency Medicine Podcast Episode 94.0 – Mammal Bites
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Apr 24, 2017 Discover the ins and outs of mammal bites—from dogs to humans. Learn about the critical aspects of wound closure and effective antibiotic use. The dangers of rabies exposure are discussed, emphasizing tailored medical responses. Misconceptions around dog bite severity and treatment are debunked, providing clarity on wound management. Get insights into unique cases involving cat and bat bites, plus essential tips for recognizing deeper medical issues behind various bite patterns.
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Dog Bite Closure
- Close dog bites after copious high-pressure irrigation within 8 hours.
- This improves cosmetic outcomes, though evidence from large trials is lacking.
Dog Bite Antibiotics
- Prescribe amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) for dog bites, especially hand wounds.
- Use 875mg/125mg twice daily for 3-5 days as prophylaxis.
Rabies Prophylaxis
- Be liberal with rabies prophylaxis for unknown animal bites, especially mammals.
- Consult the CDC website for specific exposure guidelines.