What to do with rat bites? - briefly
Clean the wound with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and seek medical evaluation for possible infection or rabies exposure. Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on antibiotics, tetanus booster, and wound care.
What to do with rat bites? - in detail
When a rat bite occurs, immediate action determines the severity of infection and the speed of recovery.
First, stop any bleeding. Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze for several minutes until bleeding ceases.
Second, cleanse the wound thoroughly. Rinse under running water for at least one minute. Follow with a mild antiseptic solution—such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine—and scrub gently to remove debris.
Third, assess the depth and condition of the injury. Small punctures without visible tissue damage may be managed at home, while larger lacerations, signs of crushing, or exposed bone require professional care.
Fourth, seek medical evaluation promptly. A clinician will:
- Examine for foreign material and tissue loss.
- Determine the need for suturing or debridement.
- Prescribe appropriate antibiotics, commonly a combination covering Streptobacillus moniliformis (rat‑bite fever) and Staphylococcus/Streptococcus species.
- Verify tetanus immunization status; administer a booster if the last dose exceeds five years or if the patient’s record is unknown.
- Consider rabies prophylaxis only if the rat is confirmed to be a rabid carrier, which is rare in most regions.
Fifth, implement wound care at home. Change dressings daily or whenever they become wet or contaminated. Keep the area dry, except during cleaning, and monitor for redness, swelling, increased pain, or pus formation.
Sixth, schedule follow‑up. Return to the healthcare provider within 48–72 hours to reassess healing and adjust antibiotics if necessary.
Additional considerations:
- Report the incident to local public‑health authorities if the bite occurred in a workplace, school, or other regulated environment.
- Store the rat, if safely possible, for identification in case of disease investigation.
- Educate household members about rodent control measures to reduce future exposure.
Adhering to these steps minimizes complications, promotes rapid tissue repair, and protects against systemic infections associated with rodent bites.