For a patient with a clean cat bite, what is the standard infection prophylaxis?

In the case of a clean cat bite, the standard infection prophylaxis recommended is Augmentin for 10 days. Cat bites are particularly risky due to the bacteria that can be introduced into the wound from the cat's mouth, with Pasteurella multocida being a common pathogen. Augmentin, which combines amoxicillin and clavulanate, is effective against this bacteria and provides a broad spectrum of coverage for other potential pathogens as well.

Prompt antibiotic treatment is crucial in preventing infection, especially given that bites can lead to serious complications if not appropriately managed. The recommended course of 10 days of antibiotics helps to ensure that any bacteria present are thoroughly eradicated, minimizing the risk of a subsequent infection.

In this context, other options are less suitable. While it may be possible to consider no prophylaxis for very minor wounds or in cases where the patient is already up to date on their tetanus vaccination, cat bites generally require a more proactive approach due to their higher infection risk. Penicillin alone does not provide adequate coverage for the typical pathogens associated with cat bites, and relying solely on a tetanus shot does not address the bacterial infection risk posed by the bite itself.