Resolved question:
My daughter was bit by my boyfriend's son. While my boyfriend, daughter and his son were in the car I ran into my house. I took longer than expected, so my boyfriend came in to see if everything was okay with me. He said that both kids were sleeping. In the two minutes we were out of the car his son managed to wake up and bite my daughter's finger. It is bleeding and after about an hour now she has stopped crying. Should I bring her to the ER at 1AM to have them look at it? I will probably just call my doctor first thing in the morning but I am in need of advice. And I don't know how to explain what happened without feeling terrible, and I don't want them to pin neglection onto the situation...
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Pediatrician
Dear parent,
Thank you for your consult at DoctorSpring. I understand your concern.
Human bites, especially ones associated with bleeding are dangerous. In fact they are more dangerous than even animal bites. The following risks exist:
1. Risk of transmitting an infection from germs in the oral cavity.
2. Injury to tendons, ligaments and joints
Hence, DO NOT IGNORE this bite. Take your child to the nearest ER immediately. As a first aid measures, kindly follow these three steps, that are applicable in all human bite situations:
1. Stop Bleeding
Apply firm, direct pressure with sterile gauze or clean cloth until bleeding stops.
2. Clean and Protect
Clean the wound with mild soap and water. Rinse for several minutes under running water.
Watch for signs of infection: redness, pain, swelling, or pus. Get medical help.
3. Get Medical Help
See a health care provider about any human bite because there is a high risk of infection. Even minor bites can easily become infected
Deeper bite wounds may require stitches.
The health care provider may give a tetanus shot or booster.
The health care provider may prescribe antibiotics.
Hope your child recovers soon. We also need to train our children not to express their anger through biting. Please feel free to get back with any queries.
Regards
Dr. Saptharishi L G