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  • Essay / Botulism: Causes and Effects of Botulism - 792

    Since botulinum toxin causes respiratory failure and paralysis, ventilators (breathing devices) may be used to aid breathing. “Meticulous airway management is paramount, as respiratory failure poses the most significant threat to survival in patients with botulism” (Chan-Tack, 2015, paragraph 11). Patients may also receive a tracheotomy to aid in the removal of secretions as well as a Foley catheter to aid incontinence. Whole bowel irrigation can also be used to remove botulinum toxin. “Dr. Zamani highlighted the role of whole bowel irrigation (WBI) with polyethylene glycol as an appropriate complementary option for gastrointestinal decontamination in cases of severe botulinum poisoning” (Lonati, et al..,