Toddler got bitten at nursery

[xoClaireox]

Hi too you all. My 2 year old got bitten at nursery yesterday. It did break the skin and it did bleed, the cut isn't terribly big but I can tell it hurts him when he's playing etc. I'm awful for having intrusive thoughts since i was pregnant with my boy, I still get them. I'm worried he will get an infection and could lead to something worse. I know they took the correct procedure with washing and cleaning the wound etc. But i also know how human bites can become infected. I suppose what I'm asking is what would the signs be if it is infected. Of course Dr Google will tell me it might already be infected as it's quite swollen now and red but surely this would be natural after a bites and cuts. Anyone else had there child bitten, they've been fine right? I feel sick with worry 😟

Hi OP. Im a nurse. Classic signs of infection are pus from the wound, increased redness, pain and if the wound feels warm to touch. Also keep an eye on if your child is well in themselves. Im sure everything will be fine! If you're concerned, you can make an appointment with a nurse at your GP who will be able to have a look and give appropriate advice or treatment if needed.

Of course Dr Google will tell me it might already be infected as it's quite swollen now and red but surely this would be natural after a bites and cuts

If you are worried, contact your GP but you are correct that it is normal for a wound to be red and swollen for a couple of days. This is part of the healing process, as the body increases the blood supply to the area, to help grow the new skin to cover the wound, and to fight infection.

After about the first 24-36 hours, the redness and swelling should gradually subside. The area may be more red and swollen than normal for several days - possibly longer if the bite is deep - but it shouldn't be any worse tomorrow than today and, after that, it should be a bit better every day. If it start to get worse at any point, or if your DS gets any of the symptoms that @Letsallscreamatthesistene mentions, you need to contact your GP or 111.

Poor DS, I know you're worried OP but in sure he will be fine.

I had PND and anxiety when my DS was born. I'd get awful intrusive thoughts about all the horrible ways DS was going to die. My HV noticed and called my GP. They put me on setraline and I worked with the perinatal mental health team. I also had EMDR and I'm so much better.

It's such a waste of happiness to spend time needlessly worrying. Please speak to your GP about your anxiety

It is horrible when they get bitten but it is very likely that they will bite or get bitten at some point! There was a biter at DDs nursery and she got bitten a couple of times. She was absolutely fine and has always been very fond of the biter who has thankfully now stopped! Just keep your eye on it like you would do any other injury and call the Dr/NHS direct if worried.

Just to add that I have been an A&E doctor and GP for over 20 years. I have seen loads of bites from toddlers, but I have never, ever seen one get infected.

Adult bites (commoner than you might think!) are different, but most kids seem to get bitten by another child at some point and just to shrug it off.

Of course, watch out for signs of infection, but there is a 99.99% chance your DS will be fine.

Horrible for both of you, but he will be fine.