TETANUS ADMINSTRATION

Tetanus Toxoid Administration Overview Tetanus toxoid is a vaccine used to prevent tetanus, a serious bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani. This vaccine is administered to individuals to provide active immunity by stimulating the body's immune response to produce antibodies against the tetanus toxin.

Indications Routine Vaccination: Part of the childhood immunization schedule or adult booster doses. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis: Administered to individuals with wounds at risk of tetanus infection, especially if vaccination history is incomplete or unknown. Pregnancy: Given to pregnant women to prevent neonatal tetanus. Dosage and Schedule For Routine Immunization (Primary Series) Infants and Children:

Doses: Three doses at 6, 10, and 14 weeks of age, as part of the DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) vaccine. Booster Doses: At 15-18 months, 4-6 years, and every 10 years thereafter. Adults:

If unvaccinated or status unknown: Primary series of three doses (0, 1, and 6 months apart). Booster every 10 years after primary series. For Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Clean Wounds:

No tetanus booster needed if the last dose was within 10 years. Administer a booster if it has been more than 10 years since the last dose. Contaminated or High-Risk Wounds:

Administer a tetanus booster if it has been more than 5 years since the last dose. If the person has never been vaccinated or their status is unknown, administer both: Tetanus toxoid (active immunity). Tetanus immunoglobulin (TIG) (passive immunity) at a different site. Administration Route: Administer intramuscularly (IM), usually in the deltoid muscle of the upper arm or the anterolateral thigh for infants. Needle Size and Angle: Adults: Use a 1-inch needle, 90° angle. Children/Infants: Use a 5/8 to 1-inch needle, depending on muscle mass. Site Preparation: Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab. Precautions Allergic Reactions: Contraindicated in individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to a prior dose. Pregnancy: Safe for administration. Pregnant women should receive a tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine during the second or third trimester. Immunosuppression: May not achieve full immunity; additional precautions may be needed. Side Effects Common: Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Low-grade fever. Fatigue or muscle aches. Rare but Serious: Severe allergic reactions. Neurological complications (extremely rare). Storage and Handling Temperature: Store at 2–8°C (refrigerator). Do not freeze. Use: Shake well before use. Check the expiration date. Note: Always follow local immunization guidelines and consult a healthcare professional for any specific conditions or concerns related to tetanus vaccination.