Bites that cannot be adequately cleaned

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Bites that cannot be adequately cleaned

Many animal and human bites are minor, and home treatment is all that is needed to prevent infection and promote healing.

It may be difficult to remove dirt or other debris from a bite or to clean large or deep bites. Gentle scrubbing may be needed to clean the bite. If cleaning a bite causes too much pain, then you may not be able to clean it adequately at home. See how to clean a bite.

An evaluation by your health professional is usually needed if you have a bite that cannot be adequately cleaned with home treatment, and you:

Have health risks that increase your risk for infection.
Have a bite that is at high risk for infection and may need antibiotic treatment.
Need stitches.
Need a tetanus shot.
Have other injuries.

When a bite is not adequately cleaned, infection, slow healing, and increased scarring are more likely to occur.

Credits

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Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Last Updated	June 10, 2008

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Last updated:	June 10, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

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