A client with tetanus is receiving antibiotic therapy. Which statement made by the client indicates a need for further education?

Choice A rationale:

Administering antitoxin therapy is appropriate for managing tetanus because it helps neutralize the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani and can prevent its further effects on the body.

Choice B rationale:

Initiating antibiotic treatment is not effective in managing tetanus. Antibiotics are not useful in neutralizing the neurotoxin and treating the symptoms of tetanus.

Choice C rationale:

Providing muscle relaxants is essential for managing tetanus, as they help alleviate muscle contractions and rigidity, reducing the severity of symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Ensuring adequate hydration is crucial in managing tetanus because dehydration can worsen muscle spasms and lead to complications.

Choice E rationale:

Applying heat to affected areas is not appropriate for managing tetanus. Heat application can exacerbate muscle contractions and is not a recommended intervention for this condition.

Choice B rationale:

Clostridium tetani is responsible for tetanus. When a puncture wound is contaminated with spores of this bacterium, it can produce a potent neurotoxin that causes muscle contractions, rigidity, and potentially life-threatening complications.

Choice A rationale:

Clostridium difficile is not responsible for tetanus. It is a different bacterium that can cause gastrointestinal infections and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Choice C rationale:

Escherichia coli is not responsible for tetanus. While certain strains of

E. coli can cause food poisoning and other infections, it is not associated with tetanus.

Choice D rationale:

Streptococcus pneumoniae is not responsible for tetanus. It is a bacterium commonly associated with respiratory infections, such as pneumonia.