BITE TRAUMA PROTOCOL

Version May 20, 2022

Points of vigilance

Small teeth can cause serious damage beneath the skin
The wound may appear superficial but affect tendons and ligaments
At the abdominal level: multiple layers may be affected
When in doubt, always consult a hospital via 911

🐕 Rabies — VaccinationIf the animal involved carries rabies or if its vaccination status is unknown, ensure the victim receives the proper treatments (rabies vaccine).

🚫 Never suck out venomNever attempt to extract venom using your mouth. Risk of contamination and worsening.

🦎 Type of bite — InformationNote the time of the incident and the type of bite (animal, insect, reptile, etc.) to relay to emergency services.

📋 Report the animalReport the animal involved to the competent authorities (stray, wild, abnormal behaviour).

🩸 Associated bleedingIf the bite causes significant bleeding, refer to the hemorrhagic trauma protocol.

📊 Continuous reassessmentReassess vital signs frequently (ABC) and monitor for signs of envenomation or allergic reaction.

PROTOCOL — BITE TRAUMA

Immediate actions — All bites

😌 Stay calm — Reassure the victim
The victim may be emotionally traumatized

📋 Note the time of the incident and the type of bite
Animal · Insect · Reptile · Human · etc.

🛌 Lay the victim on the ground on their back

TYPE OF BITE

☠ VENOMOUS

🚫 Never suck out the venom
with the mouth

🛌 Immobilize the affected limb
Below the heart level if possible

🩹 Cover the wound
dry non-compressive dressing

Will emergency services take
too long?

YES

🚗 Begin immediate
transport to hospital
+ call 911

Maintain position
+ wait for emergency services

✓ NON-VENOMOUS

🧼 Wash the wound with water and soap
Rinse thoroughly for several minutes

Is there bleeding?

YES

Hemorrhagic
protocol

Dry non-compressive
dressing

🌡 Cover the victim
(warm or foil blanket)

📊 Reassess frequently
vital signs (ABC)

In all cases — Common actions

🌡 Cover the victim
(warm / foil blanket)

📊 Reassess
vital signs (ABC)

📞 Hospital
via 911