How to administer a tetanus shot: steps

Written by Ma Xian Shi
General Surgery
Updated on January 10, 2025
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First, an allergy test must be conducted. Based on the results of the allergy test, the application of tetanus antitoxin is decided. The allergy test involves drawing 0.1 ml of antitoxin serum, diluting it with 0.9 ml of isotonic saline, and then injecting 0.05 to 0.1 ml of the diluted solution intradermally on the flexor side of the forearm. An equivalent amount of isotonic saline is injected on the other forearm as a control. Observe for 15-30 minutes. If there is no nodule or resistance at the injection site, it is a negative result. Patients with a negative result can have the rest of the original liquid injected subcutaneously. If a red nodule of about one centimeter or resistance appears at the serum injection site, the allergy test is positive. In this case, a desensitization injection is needed. The desensitization injection involves diluting the required injection fluid and the antitoxin serum with isotonic saline to ten times the volume and administering it subcutaneously in divided doses. After dilution to ten times the volume, which is 10 ml, the initial dose of 1 ml is administered, followed by 2 ml, 3 ml, and 4 ml, with each injection spaced 30 minutes apart until completed.

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Can tetanus be fatal?

Firstly, severe tetanus, if not treated in time, can be fatal. When infected with tetanus, the early symptoms mainly include dizziness, headache, fatigue, decreased appetite, weak chewing, soreness or cramping of the jaw muscles, or muscle tension. Of course, when tetanus is severe, it can manifest as difficulty opening the mouth, risus sardonicus, opisthotonos, and stiff neck. In severe cases, there may be difficulty breathing, respiratory arrest, and even cardiac arrest. If in this situation, we do not promptly carry out emergency treatment, the tetanus patient can die.

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How many years does the tetanus vaccine last?

Tetanus vaccines generally involve an active immunization process against tetanus with a complete immunization schedule, providing effective protection for up to ten years for those who have completed the full course of prevention. Typically, newborns must receive three doses of the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) vaccine, with the first dose administered at three months of age, followed by a dose each subsequent month, and booster shots at eighteen months or six years of age. If vaccinated, no further tetanus antitoxin or tetanus immunoglobulin injections are required for injuries incurred within ten years of vaccination. If no active immunization has been done and the wound is heavily contaminated, it is crucial to promptly administer tetanus antitoxin or tetanus immunoglobulin. A skin test must be performed before using tetanus antitoxin; if the test is strongly positive, immunoglobulin should be administered for preventive treatment.

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Do not get a tetanus shot before a certain age.

Tetanus antitoxin, this type of vaccine, generally has no significant age restrictions. It is usually best not to administer it before the age of one, as it involves using a toxin to combat toxins and prevent certain diseases. Therefore, it is advised not to vaccinate before one year of age. However, not everyone needs to be vaccinated against tetanus; it only serves as a preventive measure and is only necessary if there is a possibility of infection. For instance, vaccination is required when there are deep wounds or apparent injuries from rusty metal, as these conditions have a higher risk of infection. In such cases, administering tetanus antitoxin can effectively prevent infection. Thus, vaccination should depend on the specific situation rather than on age.

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Can tetanus be cured?

Tetanus is a curable disease. It is usually caused by an infection with the tetanus bacillus, which produces a specific infection in the human body. Clinically, it is mainly manifested as muscle tension and rigidity, with the primary symptoms being difficulty opening the mouth, a sardonic smile, neck stiffness, and opisthotonos. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory confusion, respiratory arrest, or cardiac arrest. Therefore, patients with tetanus should go to the hospital for treatment as soon as possible. With standardized and systematic treatment, the vast majority of patients can be cured.

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Tetanus nursing measures

Tetanus Patient Care: First, isolate the patient and maintain a quiet environment to minimize disturbances. Second, communicate carefully with the patient to alleviate their anxiety and boost their confidence in overcoming the illness. Third, install bed rails on both sides of the bed to prevent the patient from falling out. Additionally, use a mouth guard to prevent tongue injuries during spasms. Fourth, pay attention to the care of the patient's oral cavity and skin to prevent the development of oral ulcers, skin breakdown, or pressure sores.