Antimicrobial prescribing: NHS Grampian, Orkney & Shetland
Important: Therapy
- Assess the type and severity of the bite, including:
- what caused the bite
- the site and depth of the wound
- whether it is infected.
- Assess the risk of tetanus, rabies or a bloodborne viral infection and take appropriate action.
- Manage the wound with irrigation and debridement as necessary.
- Seek specialist advice from a microbiologist for bites from a wild or exotic animal (including birds and non-traditional pets).
- Consider seeking specialist advice from a microbiologist for domestic animal bites (including farm animal bites) you are unfamiliar with.
- Send blood and swabs for culture, where appropriate.
- Refer to NICE guidance for advice on when antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated.