Bite wounds. Early treatment and prophylaxis against infectious complications.

Patient education is important for decreasing the incidence and morbidity of animal bites. When bites do occur, immediate treatment should be given according to established recommended guidelines. Copious irrigation may be the most important aspect of wound care. In addition, early initiation of antimicrobial therapy, particularly in patients at high risk for infection, can decrease morbidity and mortality. A patient's tetanus status and risk of rabies must also be identified and appropriate immunoprophylaxis administered.