Animal Bites
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:
- Recognise the signs and symptoms of various bites and stings
- Describe the appropriate treatment for various bites and stings
What are bites and stings?
Any bite is a potential source of infection, especially if the skin is broken. Bites from humans or animals have a particularly high chance of causing infection, because of the bacteria carried in saliva (spit); and bites from wild animals also carry the risk of rabies. Bites from snakes and spiders can be poisonous.
Stings can be painful and upsetting, but may also cause massive allergic reaction (see Unit 29). You will also need to take care to prevent infection.
Animal Bites
When an animal bites, it causes two types of wounda:
• Superficial lacerations (i.e. not deep) with crushing of tissue and
• Deep puncture wound. The puncture wound will cause the greater problem for the casualty, as germs will go deep into the wound. However, any opening in the skin must be treated quickly to prevent infection.
In any bite by an animal or human, the possibility of rabies and tetanus must always be
considered (see next page)
Your Aims:
- Control bleeding.
- Minimise (keep it down) the risk of infection to yourself and the casualty.
- Try to get medical help.
Your actions
As always, assess D R A B, respond as neede, and treat any more urgent injuries. If you suspect rabies, see below.
Wash the wound using soap and water (put gloves or plastic bags on if you can).
Pat dry and cover with a clean dressing. Tell the casualty to go to a clinic or doctor and check whether anti-tetanus and rabies injections are needed.
For more serious wounds, control the bleeding with direct pressure.
Cover with a sterile dressing and take or send the casualty to medical help.
Remember to keep checking the casualty’s vital signs and writing down (or remembering) what you found and what you did, so that you can report this to any health worker who takes over from you.
Rabies
Rabies is a disease spread by a virus. It affects the central nervous system, and is almost always fatal (the person dies) if not treated. Always suspect rabies if the bite is from a wild animal, or from a domestic animal that is behaving strangely.
Be especially careful when providing First Aid to someone you suspect may have been bitten by a rabid animal. Wear gloves, and do not unnecessarily touch the animal or the wound. Be especially careful of the animal – it may be dangerous. If the animal is still alive, ensure that all bystanders are aware of the dangers. If it is possible to catch the animal safely, keep it to be checked for rabies.
