Tuberculosis

What bacteria causes Tuberculosis (TB)?

Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

How is Tuberculosis transmitted?

Through aerosolization (airborne route).

What appears on a chest x-ray as a result of TB?

A round nodule or tubercle.

How long can the TB bacillus lie dormant in a person's body?

Many years.

What is considered a positive Mantoux test result?

An induration of 10 mm or greater, or 5 mm for immunocompromised clients.

What are common symptoms of active Tuberculosis?

Persistent cough, chest pain, weakness, weight loss, anorexia, hemoptysis, dyspnea, fever, night sweats, and chills.

What medication is commonly prescribed to prevent neurotoxicity when taking isoniazid?

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine).

What should clients taking rifampin be aware of regarding urine color?

Urine and other secretions will be orange.

What should be monitored for in clients taking pyrazinamide?

Hepatotoxicity and symptoms of gout.

What is the purpose of performing three early morning sputum samples for TB testing?

To confirm the diagnosis of active TB through culture.

What is the typical four-medication regimen for treating TB?

Isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.

What are the nursing actions when administering ethambutol?

Obtain baseline visual acuity tests and monitor monthly.

What is a key factor in the development of resistant strains of TB?

Medication noncompliance.

Why should clients with TB be transported using the shortest route?

To minimize exposure to others.

What are the expected physical assessment findings in older clients with TB?

Atypical findings such as altered mentation or unusual behavior.