Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the initial management for cat bites in primary care?

1. Immediate surgical intervention

2. Clean the wound and provide symptomatic care

3. Prescribe a fluoroquinolone antibiotic

4. Observe for 24 hours without intervention

The correct answer is: Clean the wound and provide symptomatic care

The initial management for cat bites in primary care involves cleaning the wound and providing symptomatic care. Cat bites can introduce bacteria into the tissue through puncture wounds, most commonly from the feline's sharp teeth. Immediate and appropriate wound care is vital to reduce the risk of infection. Cleaning the wound involves thorough irrigation with saline or soap and water to remove debris and decrease bacterial load. This step is essential because it helps prevent infection. After cleaning, symptomatic care can involve pain management and monitoring for signs of infection. In contrast, options suggesting immediate surgical intervention may not be necessary unless there is extensive tissue damage or complications present. Similarly, prescribing a fluoroquinolone antibiotic may not be appropriate as first-line treatment for all cat bites; instead, a different class of antibiotics is often recommended based on the specific bacteria likely involved. Lastly, simply observing without intervention could lead to an unattended infection, which is why proactive management is essential in these cases.