When a dog bite attack occurs, the first priority of all responders, the victim, and other involved parties should be the health of the victim. This means that the immediate focus should be medical treatment. Often, however, it may take some time before the victim can be seen by a medical professional. It is therefore crucial for the parties present at the scene to administer first aid to a victim of a dog bite attack.
Basic First Aid After a Dog Bite Attack
How should an injured victim be treated immediately following a dog bite attack? The following are five important steps to take:
- Place a clean towel over the injury site.
- Keep the injured area elevated.
- Carefully wash out the bite area with soap and water.
- Apply a sterile bandage to the wound.
- Apply antibiotic cream to the injury in order to prevent infection.
As soon as possible, it is imperative to seek medical treatment from a professional. This will not only ensure that you are best able to recover from your injuries, it will also help support your case if you ultimately decide to pursue a legal claim against the owner of the dog or another party responsible for the attack. It is also important to keep complete and accurate records of the medical treatment you receive for your injury. Seeking medical treatment from a professional is especially important if the bite is deep, if the dog that bit you is unfamiliar to you, if you cannot stop the bleeding, or if there are any signs of infection. Common signs of infection include redness, swelling, warmth, and pus.
After the attack, a knowledgeable attorney can help guide you through the process of protecting your legal rights. We encourage you to contact us today at 1-800-350-8888 to schedule a free consultation.
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