An individual with an uncertain vaccine history has been brought to the emergency room after receiving severe lacerations in an accident with farm machinery. In addition to administering a tetanus toxoid vaccine, he is given a shot of tetanus immune globulin (TIG), a form of passive immunization. Why are both necessary?
A) The tetanus vaccine provides immediate protection, and the tetanus immune globulin provides long-term protection.
B) The doctor is not sure which will work faster in this patient so decides to administer both.
C) The tetanus immune globulin is given only when there are severe injuries and a high risk of infection.
D) Tetanus immune globulin is always given along with the tetanus vaccine.
E) The tetanus immune globulin provides immediate, short-term protection, and the tetanus vaccine provides long-term protection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tetanus immune globulin provides immediate, short-term protection by supplying antibodies directly, while the tetanus vaccine stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies for long-term protection.

An Individual with an Uncertain Vaccine History Has Been Brought