injuries poisoning
Human and Mammal Bites
Key Points
Infectious risk is high for hand wounds, particularly clenched-fist injuries. Evaluate hand wounds with the hand in the position it was when the wound was inflicted. Evaluate wounds for damage to nerve, tendon, bone, and vasculature and for the presence of foreign bodies. Close only wounds that have minimal damage and can be cleansed effectively. Decrease risk of infection by thorough mechanical cleaning, debridement, and sometimes antimicrobial prophylaxis. 