What is the first step in care for an animal bite when bleeding is present?

• A. Apply direct pressure to control bleeding
• B. Immediately give antibiotics on scene
• C. Capture the animal for identification
• D. Apply ice to the wound

Answer: (A)

When an animal bite is bleeding, the first priority is to control the hemorrhage. Applying direct pressure to the wound with a clean dressing or cloth compresses the damaged vessels, slows or stops the bleed, and helps prevent shock. This step should be done firmly and maintained for several minutes; if blood soaks through, add more dressings on top rather than removing the initial one.

Once the bleeding is under control, you would proceed with wound cleaning (rinse with clean water, gently flush if possible, avoid harsh scrubbing), then cover the wound with a sterile dressing and continue to monitor for signs of infection or worsening bleeding. Antibiotics and other treatments are addressed after bleeding is controlled and medical evaluation is obtained. Capturing the animal and applying ice are not priority actions for the first step in bleeding control.