A nurse is caring for a client with suspected tuberculosis (TB) who has provided sputum samples for testing. Which laboratory test is used to confirm the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum samples?
Complete blood count (CBC)
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
Tuberculin skin test (TST)
Gram stain
The Correct Answer is B
A) Incorrect. A complete blood count (CBC) may reveal abnormalities associated with TB, but it does not directly confirm the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum samples.
B) Correct. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a molecular test that can detect the genetic material of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum samples, providing a confirmatory diagnosis.
C) Incorrect. The tuberculin skin test (TST) is a screening test for TB infection, not a test for confirming active disease in sputum samples.
D) Incorrect. Gram stain is a laboratory technique used to visualize the characteristics of bacterial cells but is not specific for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Skipping doses, even when feeling better, can lead to drug resistance and treatment failure.
B) Correct. Taking all medications as prescribed is essential to prevent the development of drug-resistant TB.
C) Incorrect. TB treatment should be completed in its entirety, even if symptoms improve before the regimen is finished.
D) Incorrect. TB medications should be taken as prescribed, not solely based on symptom severity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A CT scan does not directly confirm the presence of TB bacteria but provides detailed images of the chest.
B) Incorrect. A CT scan is not used as a primary screening tool for TB infection in the bloodstream.
C) Correct. Chest CT scans are valuable for assessing the extent of lung involvement, detecting complications such as cavities or pleural effusions, and guiding treatment decisions in TB cases.
D) Incorrect. CT scans are commonly used in the evaluation and management of TB, especially for assessing lung abnormalities.
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