South Carolina Long Term Health Care Administrator Practice Test

What should be indicated for staff members with positive TST results?

1. Immediate chest radiograph

2. Documentation of conversion

3. Mandatory training

4. Isolation

The correct answer is: Documentation of conversion

For staff members with positive Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) results, documentation of conversion is essential. A positive TST indicates that the individual has been exposed to the tuberculosis bacteria, and it is vital to document this conversion as part of proper health records management. This documentation serves multiple purposes, such as ensuring the staff member receives appropriate follow-up care and is monitored for symptoms of active tuberculosis, and it also contributes to understanding the potential risk of transmission within the healthcare setting. Proper documentation allows the facility to maintain compliance with health regulations and ensures that infection control measures are in place. It also aids in tracking the health status of employees and can inform future health screening and workplace health policies. Immediate chest radiograph, while an important step following a positive TST to rule out active TB, is not what needs to be documented specifically for staff members; it is more of a procedural step rather than a record-keeping requirement. Mandatory training is not a standard requirement specifically tied to TST results, although training on TB awareness may be part of overall workplace safety and health protocols. Isolation is typically not necessary for individuals with a positive TST result unless they are symptomatic and diagnosed with active tuberculosis, which requires different precautions.