What should you do if a rat bites and draws blood? - briefly
Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, apply pressure to control bleeding, and cover it with a sterile dressing. Obtain medical evaluation promptly for tetanus update, rabies risk assessment, and appropriate antibiotic treatment.
What should you do if a rat bites and draws blood? - in detail
When a rodent bite results in bleeding, act promptly to reduce the risk of infection and other complications.
First, apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze for several minutes until bleeding stops. If the wound continues to ooze, maintain pressure and elevate the affected area above heart level to lessen blood flow.
Second, cleanse the site thoroughly. Rinse with running water for at least one minute, then wash with mild soap. Avoid scrubbing aggressively; gentle agitation removes debris without damaging tissue. After washing, rinse again with clean water and pat dry with a sterile pad.
Third, apply an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine. Cover the cleaned wound with a sterile non‑adhesive dressing, securing it with a bandage that is not too tight.
Fourth, seek professional medical evaluation without delay. A healthcare provider will assess the need for:
- Tetanus booster, especially if vaccination status is outdated or unknown.
- Prophylactic antibiotics targeting common rodent‑borne bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pasteurella, Leptospira).
- Rabies post‑exposure prophylaxis if the animal’s vaccination status is uncertain or the bite occurred in a region where rabies is endemic.
Fifth, monitor the wound for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever. Report any such changes to a medical professional immediately.
Sixth, document the incident. Record the date and time of the bite, location, description of the rat (size, health appearance), and any witnesses. This information assists healthcare providers and, if required, public‑health authorities.
Finally, address the underlying rodent problem to prevent recurrence. Seal entry points, store food in sealed containers, eliminate water sources, and consider professional pest control. Maintaining a clean environment reduces the likelihood of future bites and associated health hazards.