Pediatric Emergency Medicine Reports – December 1, 2015
December 1, 2015
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ED Evaluation and Management of Mammalian Bites, and Snake and Spider Envenomations
As a consequence of their playful and curious nature, children not uncommonly present to the ED with bite injuries; in fact, more than half of bite victims in the ED are children. Although envenomations are infrequent, the relatively high dose of venom per body weight in a young child can lead to significant effects. This article will discuss the key clinical features and management of bites from dogs, cats, and humans, as well as envenomations from snakes and spiders. Although not exhaustive, this review will provide a framework for the care of children who have sustained a bite or possible envenomation.