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Bite Back: Unpacking Animal Bite Infections

15
5.0

Course Overview
The course will review common causes of animal bite infections in the U.S. It will describe common animals whose bites lead to infections, and the risk of infection with each type of animal bite. This course is relevant for a variety of people in the healthcare field. Primary care and emergency providers may encounter patients who present with animal bites and need to be prepared to develop a treatment plan. Not all animal bites have the same risk of leading to an infection. The microbiology varies based on the commensal organisms in the mouths of different animals. Providers will need to be aware of the initial management of these bites, including antimicrobial therapy and post-exposure vaccinations. Rapid identification of risk and needs is essential for proper management. Providers should be up to date on treatment and vaccine recommendations to provide the best care to patients.

Learning Outcomes 
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:

  • Describe the incidence of animal bite infections in the United States.
  • Identify common pathogens involved in animal bite infections.
  • Review the clinical presentation of animal bites, including symptoms and potential complications.
  • Discuss the risk factors for infections developing from animal bites.
  • Develop treatment regimens for selected animal bite-related infections.

About the Author/Presenter 
Madeline King, PharmD, BCIDP, is an infectious diseases clinical pharmacist in New Jersey and is the co-director of the outpatient antimicrobial stewardship program at her institution. She is passionate about public health and improving patient outcomes from infections with respect to social determinants of health. She is also a cat lover and has experienced more than her share of cat bites that have never become infected.

Audience/Accreditations and Approvals 
TRC Healthcare/ NetCE 
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by TRC Healthcare/ NetCE. TRC Healthcare/NetCE is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. 
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details): 
Nursing, Pharmacy, Physician

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