A recent study has shown that the risk of tetanus infection is often overlooked in older patients with long-standing open wounds.

Chronic ulcerated skin is a potential portal for tetanus infection. Researchers have found that despite being vaccinated, older patients are 47% less likely to have high concentrations of immunoglobulin G antibodies protecting them against Clostridium tetani. Over 50% of patients with chronic wounds do not know when their last tetanus vaccine was given, and as many as three-quarters of patients with chronic wounds are not up to date with their vaccination.

The study recommends that new protocols be instated to ensure all patients with chronic wounds are assessed and vaccinated for tetanus, and that this information be recorded in the patient's clinical wound management documents.

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Image: Tetanus shot. Credit: blakespot on Flickr.