helminths ( parasite worms)

Question 1

types of helminths

Answer 1

tapeworm and threadworm

Question 2

tapeworm

Answer 2

occurs when theres poor standards of sewage disposal. transmitted by eating raw meat or undercooked meat containing eggs. can grow up to 10m and live for 20 years

Question 3

threadworm

Answer 3

threadworms are between 5 and 15mm. symptoms include itchy anus at night

Question 4

referral criteria

Answer 4

broken or weeping skin, failed medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.

Question 5

treatment options

Answer 5

personal hygiene, environmental hygiene, mebendazole

Question 6

personal hygiene treatment regime

Answer 6

shower in the morning, washing hands, discourage nail biting and personal towels for 6 weeks

Question 7

environmental hygiene treatment regime

Answer 7

vacuuming, washing toys, washing clothes and beds

Question 8

what is mebendazole?

Answer 8

stops worms from absorbing glucose. suitable for 2+. dose is one tablet or 5ml repeated after two weeks. side effects can include abdominal pain, diarrhoea and rash but very rare. must be avoided in pregnancy.