Tetanus prophylaxis needs to be considered in all patients presenting with wounds of any type.
Antimicrobial
For patients with:
- At least 3 doses of tetanus toxoid vaccine AND
- Last vaccine was given within 5 years
No prophylaxis required
For patients with:
- Unknown vaccination status OR
- Less than 3 doses of vaccine OR
- Last vaccine over 5 years ago
Give Tetanus toxoid vaccine
For patients who present with anything other than a minor, clean wound AND with:
- Unknown vaccination status OR
- Less than 3 doses of vaccine
Give tetanus immunoglobulin 250 IU if <24 hours since injury, 500 IU if >24 hours since injury (if this is available), IN ADDITION to tetanus toxoid vaccine.
Comments and Duration of Therapy
For treatment see Tetanus in Special Infections.