Summary:
In the 1960s and 1970s, the world was trying to eliminate smallpox, and when we succeeded in 1980, the need no longer existed to vaccinate every child. In time, because generations were not vaccinated, they had no immunity to smallpox. Today, because of the world’s lack of immunity, smallpox could be a terrorist weapon. After the anthrax attacks of 2001, U.S. leaders were willing to listen to those who had been trying for years to warn of the threat of bioterrorism. It took mass prophylaxis in the nation’s capital for healthcare professionals to realize that mass prophylaxis was their responsibility. Botulinum toxin, produced by Clostridium botulinum, is the most toxic substance known. A single gram of crystalline toxin evenly dispersed for inhalation could kill more than 1 million people. Experts acknowledge there must be a cadre of nurses and RTs identified and prepared to deliver mass prophylaxis.
Objectives:
The goal of this program is to familiarize respiratory therapists (RTs) with clinical ramifications of bioterrorism. Part 1 explored the RT’s role in recognizing symptoms produced by a biological terrorist attack and information about anthrax and plague. Part 2 discusses botulism and smallpox and the RT’s role in emergency preparedness in the event of an attack. After studying the information presented here, you will be able to —
- Identify signs and symptoms of botulism and smallpox and their medical management.
- List the recommendations of national agencies involved in emergency preparedness measures.
- Explain emergency preparedness measures for bioterrorism.
Approval Information
This CE course is approved for respiratory therapists from 1/10/2012 to 1/10/2014.
This program has been approved for 1 contact hour of Continuing Respiratory Care Education (CRCE) credit by the American Association for Respiratory Care, 9425 N. MacArthur Blvd., Suite 100, Irving, TX 75063. AARC Sponsor ID: 9514012. This is a non-traditional course.
If you are a respiratory therapist, remember to give us your AARC member number when filling out your license number information.
Gannett Education is also approved by the Florida Board of Respiratory Care (provider #FBN 50-1489).