A client receives an injection of botulinum toxin type A for facial and neck rejuvenation. What complications of this procedure should the nurse be aware of for monitoring and teaching?

Question

A client receives an injection of botulinum toxin type A for facial and neck rejuvenation.  What complications of this procedure should the nurse be aware of for monitoring and teaching?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) blocks neuromuscular transmission by inhibiting acetylcholine release from nerve endings. The drug is used for treating wrinkles, blepharospasm, and cervical dystonia. Complications are uncommon when Botox is used for cosmetic purposes but can be life-threatening if they occur. The toxin can also relax the muscles used for swallowing and breathing, resulting in dysphagia (aspiration risk) and respiratory paralysis. (Options A and B) Botulism can be associated with constipation and urinary retention due to relaxation of smooth muscle. Unlike in Clostridium tetani infection (tetanus), painful rigidity and spasms of the neck, back, and abdominal muscles are absent. (Option D) Ataxia and hand tremor usually indicate drug toxicity (eg, phenytoin, lithium). Educational objective: Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) inhibits the release of acetylcholine from nerve endings and causes relaxation of skeletal/smooth muscles. On occasion, surrounding muscle weakness can lead to dysphagia and respiratory paralysis.

A Client Receives an Injection of Botulinum Toxin Type a for Facial