Shortly after returning home, a mother calls to report that her child has bitten his lower lip causing redness and swelling. What is the appropriate treatment?
A) Return to the office immediately for evaluation
B) Apply benzocaine topical to reduce pain
C) Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling
D) Apply heat to increase circulation, and to reduce swelling and pain

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Applying a cold pack to the affected area is the appropriate treatment for reducing swelling after a lip bite. Cold therapy helps to constrict blood vessels, which can reduce swelling and inflammation. Options A, B, and D are not recommended in this scenario. Immediate office evaluation is not necessary for a simple lip bite with redness and swelling, benzocaine topical can cause methemoglobinemia in certain individuals and is not recommended for young children, and applying heat could potentially increase swelling by dilating blood vessels.

Shortly After Returning Home, a Mother Calls to Report That