2. DEFINITION
• Tetanus is a potentially life-threatening
bacterial infection caused by the bacterium
Clostridium tetani. It can occur in
newborns when the bacterium enters the
body through wounds or cuts, leading to
the production of a potent neurotoxin.
6. PREDISPOSINGFACTORS
• Unhygienic Birth Practices: Contaminated
instruments or unclean conditions during
childbirth.
• Umbilical Cord Care: Inappropriate handling or
care of the umbilical stump.
• Lack of Immunization: Inadequate or absent
tetanus vaccination in pregnant women.
7. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
• The bacterium Clostridium tetani spores can be
found in soil, dust, and feces.
• When introduced into a wound or cut, the spores
can germinate and produce a potent neurotoxin
called tetanospasmin.
• Tetanospasmin interferes with nerve signals,
leading to muscle stiffness and spasms.
8.
9. CLINICAL PRESENTATIONS
• Muscle Stiffness: Starting with the muscles near
the wound and progressing to other parts of the
body.
• Spasms: Painful muscle contractions, often
triggered by stimuli like touch or noise.
• Difficulty in Swallowing: Due to stiffness in the
jaw muscles (trismus or lockjaw).
• Fever and Sweating: As the disease progresses.
10. MANAGEMENT
• Investigations
• Clinical Diagnosis: Based on signs and
symptoms, history of wound or cut,
and lack of immunization.
• Blood Tests: To confirm the presence of
tetanus antibodies.
11. DRUGS
• Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG): Provides
immediate passive immunity.
• Tetanus Toxoid Vaccine: To stimulate active
immunity and prevent future occurrences.
• Antibiotics: To eliminate the bacteria (penicillin
or metronidazole).
12. NURSING MANAGEMENT
• Wound Care: Thorough cleaning and
debriding of the wound to remove
contaminated tissue.
• Pain Management: Analgesics for pain
relief during muscle spasms.
• Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of
vital signs and signs of respiratory distress.
13. COMPLICATIONS
• Respiratory Compromise: Severe muscle
spasms can affect respiratory muscles,
leading to difficulty breathing.
• Fractures: Due to intense muscle
contractions.
• Aspiration Pneumonia: Risk of pneumonia
if the patient has difficulty swallowing.
14. PREVENTIVE MEASURES
• Immunization: Ensuring pregnant women
receive tetanus vaccination as part of routine
antenatal care.
• Clean Birth Practices: Emphasizing the
importance of clean and sterile delivery
conditions.
• Proper Umbilical Cord Care: Educating
caregivers on appropriate care to prevent
infection.
15.
16.
17. HEALTH EDUCATION
• Immunization Awareness: Encouraging women to
receive tetanus vaccinations during pregnancy.
• Wound Care Education: Teaching proper wound
care to prevent bacterial entry.
• Importance of Cleanliness: Emphasizing the
significance of clean and hygienic practices
during childbirth.
