South Carolina Long Term Health Care Administrator Practice Test

What action must be taken for staff upon unprotected exposure to M. tuberculosis?

1. Immediate isolation

2. Administer a TST

3. Notify the health department

4. Conduct a full investigation

The correct answer is: Administer a TST

In the case of unprotected exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the immediate step that must be taken for the staff is to administer a Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), commonly known as a Mantoux test. The TST is essential for detecting latent tuberculosis infection. It allows for the evaluation of whether the individual has been infected with the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. Administering the TST is crucial as it helps to identify individuals who may have been infected, as they can be asymptomatic yet contagious. Early identification of these cases permits prompt intervention, which is vital in preventing the transmission of tuberculosis in a healthcare setting. While immediate isolation may be warranted for individuals showing symptoms of active tuberculosis, the priority for those who have had unprotected exposure is to confirm whether they have been infected through testing. Notifying the health department is also necessary but typically follows after adequate testing and evaluation. Similarly, conducting a full investigation is important for assessing the exposure incident, but the immediate administration of a TST is the critical first step in ensuring the health and safety of the staff and the wider community.