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Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModerateInfectious disease emergenciesRabies post-exposure prophylaxisABEM Board

A 38-year-old man arrives after a bat was found in his bedroom while he was sleeping. Triage acuity is ESI 4; BP 128/74 mm Hg, HR 82/min. He has no visible bite and cannot confirm contact. The bat escaped and is not available for testing. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: C — Give rabies immune globulin and start rabies vaccination

Unrecognized bat exposure during sleep with unavailable animal warrants rabies post-exposure prophylaxis.

Reference: CDC rabies postexposure prophylaxis guidance