Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

In case of a dog bite, when should you seek medical help?

1. Only if it gets infected

2. If the bleeding persists

3. Immediately after washing the wound

4. After noticing redness

The correct answer is: Immediately after washing the wound

Seeking medical help after a dog bite is crucial for several reasons, and washing the wound is an important first step; however, professional evaluation is still required. If a dog bite occurs, you should seek medical help immediately after washing the wound. This is important because, even if the wound appears clean, a medical professional needs to assess the injury for potential complications such as infection, deep tissue damage, or the risk of rabies. Immediate medical attention is also essential to determine if a tetanus shot is necessary and to assess whether any stitches or additional treatment is required. While washing the wound can help reduce the risk of infection, it does not replace the need for professional evaluation and care following a bite. Other scenarios, like waiting for an infection to develop or monitoring for persistent bleeding or redness, do not prioritize the prompt medical attention necessary for bite wounds. Some symptoms might not appear until later, making immediate assessment critical for optimal recovery and safety.