The client with suspected active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) has a positive tuberculin skin test (TST). Which prescription from the health care provider does the nurse anticipate will confirm the diagnosis in this client?

Question

The client with suspected active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) has a positive tuberculin skin test (TST).  Which prescription from the health care provider does the nurse anticipate will confirm the diagnosis in this client?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacteriologic testing is performed in clients with suspected TB disease to confirm the diagnosis. A stained sputum smear is examined microscopically for the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (tubercle bacillus), and a culture identifies the growth of the microorganisms. Collect an early morning sputum sterile specimen on 3 consecutive days for an acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear and culture. Fluids and/or expectorants can be given at bedtime to help liquefy secretions. It is usually easier for clients to produce a specimen upon awakening as secretions collect in the airways during the night. (Option A) Blood cultures that identify microorganism in the blood are not usually obtained to confirm a diagnosis of TB. (Option B) Nose cultures are routinely performed to determine the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus but are not performed to confirm a diagnosis of TB. (Option D) The QuantiFERON-TB blood test is performed to screen for TB and can be used as an alternate to the TST. The advantages it offers include the following: there are fewer false-positive results, only a single client visit is required, and results are available in 24 hours. However, it is more expensive. Educational objective: An AFB sputum culture and smear test are performed to detect the presence of M. tuberculosis and confirm a diagnosis of TB.

The Client with Suspected Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) Has a Positive