5.0 Treatment and Management Protocol
Prompt and correct intervention is essential to minimize infection risk and prevent complications. The process begins with immediate first aid and is followed by professional medical care.
5.1 Critical First Aid Procedures
The following steps should be taken immediately after a dog bite occurs:
| Step | Action |
| 1. Clean the Wound | Wash the bitten area thoroughly with soap and plenty of running water for a minimum of 5-10 minutes. This action mechanically removes bacteria and contaminants. |
| 2. Control Bleeding | Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or sterile gauze. Minor bleeding often stops quickly, but deep wounds may require sustained pressure. |
| 3. Apply Antiseptic | After cleaning, carefully apply a suitable antiseptic solution to help kill any remaining microbes on the wound surface. |
| 4. Cover the Wound | Protect the wound with a clean, sterile bandage or gauze. Note: Deep or large wounds should not be completely sealed without a doctor’s evaluation, as this can trap bacteria and increase infection risk. |
5.2 Professional Medical Intervention
It is mandatory to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility immediately after administering first aid.
- Wound Assessment: A healthcare professional will evaluate the bite’s depth, size, location, and any potential damage to underlying tissues like muscles, tendons, or nerves. Bites to sensitive areas (face, hands, neck, joints) require more detailed examination.
- Tetanus Prophylaxis: The patient’s tetanus vaccination history will be reviewed. A booster dose is administered if the last vaccination was more than 5 years prior or if the status is unknown.
- Antibiotic Therapy: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent infection, typically for a course of 7-14 days. Antibiotics are particularly important in cases of:
- Deep or extensive wounds.
- Bites near joints or bones.
- Bites on the hands or feet.
- Bites in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., patients with diabetes, HIV, or those undergoing chemotherapy).