TB Basics
What microorganism causes TB?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Which population has a high risk for TB?
Immunocompromised individuals
What classic symptom often brings TB patients to seek care?
Hemoptysis (coughing up blood)
What is the gold standard test for TB diagnosis?
Sputum culture
What mnemonic represents first-line TB drugs?
R: Rifampin
I: INH (Isoniazid)
P: Pyrazinamide
E: Ethambutol
What structural feature makes TB difficult to destroy?
The waxy outer capsule
Where do TB bacilli typically settle in the lungs?
The upper lobes
What type of fever is common in TB?
Low-grade afternoon fever
How soon is a PPD (TB skin test) read?
48-72 hours
Which TB drug requires vitamin B6 supplementation?
INH
Is TB acute or chronic?
Chronic
What structure forms when immune cells contain TB?
Name one pulmonary complication of TB.
Pneumothorax
What does a positive TB screening indicate?
Exposure, not active disease
Which TB drug causes red-orange body fluids?
Rifampin
Which organ system is most commonly affected by TB?
Lungs
What is latent TB?
Contained infection without symptoms
What lung finding involves cavity formation?
Cavitation
(formation of air-filled, thick-walled, hollow spaces (cavities) within lung nodules, masses, or areas of tissue consolidation)
What imaging shows upper lobe lesions?
CXR (chest xray)
What isolation precaution is required for active TB?
Airborne
Why is TB still a public health concern?
There are drug resistant strains
What causes TB to become active?
Inadequate immune response
What symptom reflects chronic disease burden in TB?
Weight loss
Why is sensitivity testing important?
To determine effective drug therapy
What is the primary nursing goal in TB care?
Prevent transmission and promote medication compliance