Final answer:
A tetanus antitoxin injection is recommended if a person sustains an injury from a dirty object and hasn't had a tetanus vaccination within the prior 10 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an injury is a result of trauma from a dirty penetrating object, a tetanus antitoxin injection is necessary if the patient has not had one within 10 years of the injury. Tetanus, or lockjaw, is caused by an infection with Clostridium tetani. Its toxin can cause severe muscle spasms and is often introduced into the body through wounds contaminated with the bacterium. Adults should update their tetanus vaccination every 10 years with the tetanus toxoid (TT) booster. The TT booster is also recommended for anyone who sustains a wound that might be contaminated with tetanus spores, especially if their last vaccination was more than 10 years ago or if their vaccination status is unknown.