Question

A client is admitted to the emergency department with complaints of double vision, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. A nurse also observes that the client has drooping eyelids and slurred speech. He states that he recently ate home-canned green beans. The nurse suspects exposure to botulism. What type of infection control precaution is necessary?

Answer 1

The necessary infection control precaution for a suspected case of botulism is standard precautions, which include proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, safe handling and disposal of sharps, proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment, and respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette.

Step-by-step explanation:

The necessary infection control precaution for a suspected case of botulism is standard precautions.

Standard precautions are the basic level of infection control that should be used for all patients. These precautions include proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (such as gloves and masks), safe handling and disposal of sharps, proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment, and respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette.

In the case of botulism, it is important to ensure the client's safety and prevent the spread of the toxin. Treatment for botulism typically involves supportive care, such as respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and monitoring for complications.