Prevention And Treatment Of Tetanus

Overview

Tetanus is an acute fatal condition caused by the exotoxin of Clostridium Tetani bacteria. Victims present with fever, malaise, headache, pain & stiffness in the jaw, abdomen, and back followed by difficulty in swallowing and breathing. A blood culture can identify the causative agent. Placing the patient in the isolation ward minimizes stimuli in order to prevent spasm. The treatment of tetanus includes neutralizing the absorbed toxin through IV injection of human tetanus antitoxin. Wound debridement and administration of benzylpenicillin reduce further complications whereas administration of IV Diazepam stops the spasm. If the spasm continues, the doctor will resort to medical- induced paralysis and respiratory ventilator. General measures include maintaining hydration and nutrition of the patient as well as treating possible secondary infections.