The nurse is giving a presentation at a community health event. The nurse should provide which instruction on how to prevent botulism?

Question

The nurse is giving a presentation at a community health event.  The nurse should provide which instruction on how to prevent botulism?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Botulism is caused by the gastrointestinal absorption of the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum. The neurotoxin blocks acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, resulting in muscle paralysis. The organism is found in the soil and can grow in any food contaminated with the spores. Manifestations include descending flaccid paralysis (starting from the face), dysphagia, and constipation (smooth muscle paralysis). The main source is improperly cannedor stored food. A metal can's swollen/bulging end can be caused by the gases from C botulinum and should be discarded. The infant form of botulism can occur in children under age 1 year if they eat honey, particularly raw (wild) honey. The immature gut system in these children makes them more susceptible. (Option A) Contaminated water is boiled to prevent infestation with Giardia, which can cause gastrointestinal disease but is not related to botulism. (Option C) Keeping dairy at room temperature can cause it to spoil, which would then cause gastroenteritis if ingested. Most serious illnesses are prevented through pasteurization. This is not related to botulism. (Option D) Escherichia coli infections result from ingestion of food or water that is contaminated by feces. This can be related to improper handwashing or undercooking meat and is not related to botulism. Educational objective: Botulism is a result of ingesting improperly canned or stored food. Food in a can with a bulging end should not be used. Children under age 1 year should not be given honey as their immature gut system makes them prone to developing infant botulism.

The Nurse Is Giving a Presentation at a Community Health