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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Injuries and Wounds > Human Bites: Treatment & Monitoring
      Category : Health Centers > Injuries and Safety

Human Bites

Alternate Names : Bites-Human

Human Bites | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What are the treatments for the injury?

To treat a human bite, a person should:

  • wash his or her hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • control severe bleeding by applying first aid. This can be done by applying direct pressure with a clean, dry cloth. A person can also elevate the area or apply cool compresses.
  • wash the wound with mild soap and warm running water for at least 3 to 5 minutes if the bite is not bleeding severely.
  • cover the bite with a clean dressing.
  • seek medical help, because of the high risk of infection and the possible need for a tetanus shot.
  • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Side effects are minimal, provided that first aid is given immediately and that infection is diagnosed in the early stages. A tetanus shot may cause discomfort and swelling at the site of the injection.

    What happens after treatment for the injury?

    There can be persistent swelling, redness, and/or pus draining from the wound, persistent pain, and scarring. Adequate treatment and prevention of infection can often prevent these.


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    Human Bites: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Human Bites: Attribution

    Author: James Broomfield, MD
    Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
    Date Reviewed: 07/13/01









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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006