Nondomestic mammalian bites.

Life-threatening injuries resulting from wild animal bites are always treated first. Local wound management varies, depending on the type of wound and its location, but scrupulous cleansing and copious irrigation are mandatory. Tetanus prophylaxis and rabies prophylaxis are provided according to accepted guidelines. Antibiotic prophylaxis is not routinely necessary but is advisable for wounds of the hands or joints and for wounds in immunocompromised individuals.