3. The Mandate for Professional Medical Evaluation
After any dog bite, seeking professional medical care is a non-negotiable step for your safety. Even seemingly minor bites can harbor risks of deep-tissue infection or disease transmission that are not immediately apparent. A formal clinical assessment is the only way to ensure proper treatment and prevent severe complications.
What to Expect from Medical Professionals
During a clinical evaluation, a healthcare provider will take several key steps to manage the injury and mitigate risks:
- Wound Assessment: The provider will conduct a thorough examination of the wound, evaluating its depth, size, and location. This is done to assess the extent of damage to underlying structures such as muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones, particularly for bites on the hands, feet, and face.
- Tetanus Vaccination Review: The provider will ask about your tetanus vaccination history. A booster shot will be administered if your last vaccination was more than five years ago to protect against this serious bacterial disease.
- Antibiotic Treatment: To prevent or treat bacterial infections, doctors may prescribe a course of antibiotics. This is especially common for deep puncture wounds, bites located on the hands or feet, or for patients with weakened immune systems (e.g., individuals with diabetes or those undergoing chemotherapy).
This comprehensive medical evaluation is essential for immediate wound care and also serves to assess the risk of the most severe potential threat: rabies.