A nurse is preparing a presentation at a senior center about age-related musculoskeletal changes. Which of the following changes should the nurse plan to include?

Choice A reason: Botulism is Acquired Through Direct Contact with an Infected Person

Botulism is not acquired through direct contact with an infected person. It is caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The most common forms of botulism are foodborne, wound, and infant botulism. Foodborne botulism occurs when a person ingests food containing the toxin, while wound botulism occurs when the bacteria infect a wound and produce the toxin. Infant botulism occurs when infants ingest spores of the bacteria, which then grow and produce the toxin in their intestines.

Choice B reason: Notify the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) When More Than Three Cases Are Confirmed

While notifying the CDC is crucial in the event of a botulism outbreak, the specific threshold for notification can vary. Generally, any suspected case of botulism should be reported to public health authorities immediately due to the severity of the disease and the potential for outbreaks. The CDC provides guidelines for reporting and managing botulism cases.

Choice C reason: Botulism Can Produce Paralysis Within 12 to 72 Hours Following Exposure

Botulism can indeed produce paralysis within 12 to 72 hours following exposure. The toxin affects the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis. Early symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and dry mouth, followed by more severe symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, botulism can lead to respiratory failure and death.

Choice D reason: Vomiting and Diarrhea Are Expected Findings Following Exposure

Vomiting and diarrhea may occur early, especially in foodborne or inhalational exposures, before neurologic signs appear

Choice E reason: Botulism is a Toxin Found in Castor Beans

Botulism is not a toxin found in castor beans. The toxin found in castor beans is ricin, which is a different type of bioterrorism agent. Botulism is caused by the botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

Choice A reason: Perform a Blind Finger Sweep

Performing a blind finger sweep is not recommended because it can push the foreign object further into the airway, making the obstruction worse. This method is only advised if the object is clearly visible and can be safely removed without causing further harm.

Choice B reason: Turn the Client to the Side

Turning the client to the side can be helpful in certain situations, such as when the client is unconscious or at risk of vomiting. However, in the case of a conscious client with a foreign body airway obstruction, this action does not directly address the obstruction and is not the first priority.

Choice C reason: Insert an Oral Airway

Inserting an oral airway is typically used to maintain an open airway in an unconscious patient who cannot maintain their own airway. For a conscious client with a foreign body obstruction, this action is not appropriate and could cause further complications.

Choice D reason: Administer the Abdominal Thrust Maneuver

Administering the abdominal thrust maneuver (also known as the Heimlich maneuver) is the recommended first action for a conscious client with a foreign body airway obstruction. This technique involves standing behind the client, placing a fist just above their navel, and delivering quick, upward thrusts to expel the foreign object. This method is effective in creating an artificial cough that can dislodge the obstruction.