What are the key signs of infection to monitor in patients after treatment for bites, and when should I reassess them?

After treatment for bites, key signs of infection to monitor include local signs such as redness, heat, swelling, pain, and the presence of cellulitis. Systemic signs such as fever or a raised white blood cell count should also be observed as indicators of possible infection or treatment failure. If these signs are present, it may indicate a surgical site infection or other bite-related infection requiring further management.

Reassessment should be prompt if infection signs develop or persist after initial treatment. Regular clinical review and reassessment are recommended, especially if symptoms continue or worsen, to evaluate treatment effectiveness and consider alternative diagnoses or specialist referral if necessary.

Specifically, if cellulitis or other infection signs are suspected post-treatment, antibiotic therapy covering likely causative organisms should be initiated considering local resistance patterns. Avoid using inappropriate wound management methods such as Eusol and gauze for infected wounds healing by secondary intention. Seek advice from tissue viability specialists for appropriate dressing choices.

In summary, monitor for increasing redness, swelling, pain, heat, systemic symptoms like fever, and reassess patients regularly or sooner if symptoms worsen or fail to improve after bite treatment.

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