A stool sample from the patient is cultured, and confirms the presence of Clostridium botulinum. In addition, the stool sample as well as leftover stew and green beans are tested for botulinum toxin—toxin is present in the green beans and in the stool sample, but not in the stew. These results confirm the diagnosis of foodborne botulism. You are one of the RNs taking care of the patient—he remains in the hospital for several weeks, before being discharged.
-How did the antitoxin help the patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The antitoxin given in botulism is a mixture of antibodies that bind to and neutralize the different serotypes of botulinum toxin. The antibodies in the antitoxin are specific to botulinum toxin, not to the bacteria itself. The antitoxin does not destroy Clostridium botulinum cells or stimulate phagocytes to neutralize botulinum toxin. Botulinum antitoxin contains antibodies to types A, B, and E botulinum toxin, which are the types that most commonly cause illness.

A Stool Sample from the Patient Is Cultured, and Confirms