If I were to translate into American English, it would be:
Getting Scratched by a Dog: What to Do When There Are No Immediate Symptoms
Getting scratched by a dog can be a unsettling experience, especially if the animal is unknown to you. Often, the first concern is whether the scratch might lead to an infection or disease. If you've been scratched and there are no immediate symptoms, it's essential to take the right steps to ensure your safety and health.
Assess the Scratch
The first thing to do is to assess the severity of the scratch. If it's superficial and just breaks the skin without bleeding, the risk is relatively low. However, if the scratch is deep, bleeding, or located in a sensitive area, it requires immediate attention. Even if there are no immediate symptoms like pain, redness, or swelling, you should not ignore a deep scratch.
Clean the Wound
Regardless of the depth, cleaning the scratch properly is crucial. Wash your hands with soap and water before touching the wound to prevent introducing new bacteria. Gently clean the scratch with mild soap and water, removing any dirt or debris. You can also use an antiseptic wipe or solution to minimize the risk of infection.
Cover the Scratch
After cleaning, cover the scratch with a sterile bandage or gauze. This protects the wound from external contaminants and allows it to heal undisturbed. Change the bandage daily, or more frequently if it gets dirty or wet. Keep an eye on the healing process and watch for any changes that might indicate an infection.
Monitor for Symptoms