Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What general recommendation is made for patients with latent tuberculosis infection?

1. Start immediate treatment with antibiotics.

2. Vaccinate with a BCG vaccine.

3. Monitor for any progression to active disease.

4. Report to local health authorities.

The correct answer is: Monitor for any progression to active disease.

The recommendation to monitor for any progression to active disease is appropriate for patients with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). LTBI means that a person has been infected with the bacteria that cause tuberculosis but does not have active disease and is not contagious. While monitoring is essential, it’s also crucial to recognize that LTBI has the potential to progress to active tuberculosis, particularly in patients who have risk factors such as immunosuppression, malnutrition, or chronic health conditions. Regular follow-ups and monitoring allow healthcare providers to assess for any signs of progression to active disease, which is vital for timely intervention and management. Management of LTBI typically includes evaluating the patient’s overall health, exposure history, and any symptoms that may arise. However, it is also common practice to provide treatment for LTBI to prevent the progression to active disease, usually with antibiotic therapy, unless there are contraindications. This is differentiated from the monitoring approach that focuses solely on watching for changes without immediate intervention. Although vaccinations like the BCG vaccine have a role in certain populations, they are not a general recommendation for individuals with LTBI in most settings, especially in countries where the risk of TB is lower. Reporting to local health authorities is not necessarily required for LTBI unless