Bites

NHSL Antimicrobial Guidelines
NHS Lanarkshire

Bites

CKS: Bites - human and animal

Thorough irrigation is important. Assess risk of tetanus, rabies, HIV, hepatitis B/C.

Cat/Human bite: Give prophylaxis.

Dog: Give prophylaxis if puncture wound; bite to hand, foot, face, joint, tendon, ligament; immunocompromised/diabetic/asplenic/cirrhotic/ presence of prosthetic valve or prosthetic joint.

Drug details

Drug

Prophylaxis or treatment:
Co-amoxiclav

Drug

If Penicillin allergic:
Metronidazole PLUS

Duration

For 7 days (Review at 24 & 48hrs)

Drug

Doxycycline

Dosage

100mg BD

Duration

For 7 days (Review at 24 & 48hrs)

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 22/03/2021

Next review date: 22/03/2024

Author(s): NHS Lanarkshire Antimicrobial Management Committee, Dr Dundas, Dr Hylands, S McCormick.

Approved By: AMC; ADTC

Reviewer name(s): NHS Lanarkshire Antimicrobial Management Committee.