Immunity given by tetanus toxoid vaccine is?

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The tetanus toxoid vaccine provides active immunity.
A toxoid is an inactivated bacterial toxin that is no longer harmful but still acts as an antigen.
The vaccine stimulates the recipient's own immune system to produce specific antibodies and memory cells against the tetanus toxin.
This process results in long-lasting protection, which is characteristic of active immunity.

Option A: Passive immunity involves receiving pre-made antibodies, not producing them. The tetanus toxoid vaccine stimulates the body to create its own antibodies.
Option B: Innate immunity is the body's non-specific, natural defense system present from birth (e.g., skin, mucous membranes). It is not acquired through vaccination.
Option C: Herd immunity is a population-level phenomenon where widespread vaccination protects the few who are not vaccinated. It is not a type of immunity an individual acquires.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Immunity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the difference between active and passive immunity is crucial for nurses in patient education and in emergency situations, such as wound management.
Nurses must be able to explain to patients why a tetanus booster (active immunity) provides long-term protection, while Tetanus Immune Globulin (passive immunity) is used for immediate post-exposure prophylaxis in uncertain or high-risk cases.
What if? If a patient with an unknown vaccination history presents with a deep, contaminated wound, the nurse should anticipate orders for both the Tetanus Toxoid vaccine (to build long-term active immunity) and Tetanus Immune Globulin (for immediate passive protection), administered at different sites.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'Immunity' and 'tetanus toxoid vaccine'.
Recall or look up the definition of a 'toxoid'. A toxoid is an inactivated toxin used in a vaccine.
Consider the mechanism of a vaccine. Vaccines work by introducing an antigen to the body to stimulate an immune response.
Analyze the types of immunity in the options. Active immunity is when the body produces its own antibodies. Passive immunity is when the body receives ready-made antibodies.
Since the tetanus toxoid vaccine stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies, conclude that it provides active immunity.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 3 p. 148-150

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart A (pp 26-201 of 604) p. 95-97

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