Tuberculosis Infection Control

A patient with suspected respiratory tuberculosis can expose other people before the diagnosis is confirmed. The nurse’s first responsibility is therefore not to wait for the chest radiograph or sputum result. It is to recognize the transmission risk and prevent further exposure while the diagnostic workup proceeds. The central distinction is airborne versus droplet precautions. Tuberculosis is transmitted by very small droplet nuclei that remain suspended in the air and move with air currents. A surgical mask on the nurse does not provide the respiratory protection required for this route of spread. This topic tests whether the RN can connect a clinical story to an immediate safety action: identify possible infectious TB, establish airborne controls, protect staff and other patients, and escalate to the appropriate infection prevention and public health teams.