Related Experiment Videos
Clinical progress note: Diphtheria
Ketino Kobaidze1, Linda Martha Quick2
1Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
None:
Diphtheria, caused by toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae, was once a leading cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. The development of diphtheria antitoxin and toxoid vaccination resulted in dramatic reductions in global disease burden. Despite significant success, diphtheria persists in regions with low immunization coverage, fragile healthcare infrastructure, and waning adult immunity. This review summarizes epidemiologic trends from 1922 to 2025, examines the impact of vaccination efforts in the United States and worldwide, highlights historical outbreaks including the 1990s epidemic in the former Soviet republics, and discusses clinical features, diagnostics, treatment, and current preparedness. Continued robust immunization programs remain essential for sustained control.
Related Concept Videos
Diphtheria
Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Pneumonia IV: Management
Bacterial Pneumonia Treatment
For bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics serve as the cornerstone of therapy. Initial treatment often begins with empirical antibiotics, tailored to the anticipated causative organism and adjusted based on culture results. Key antibiotic choices include:
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed.
Standard Precaution
Hand hygiene is the most crucial means to prevent the transmission of disease. Employers are legally required to provide their workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure or contact with...