Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the most appropriate action for a nurse practitioner evaluating a patient with a positive Mantoux test but no active TB symptoms?

1. The patient is an illegal alien/migrant and must be reported to local State Department.

2. Health care workers must legally report illegal migrants to authorities.

3. Immediately call the state health department to report a TB infection.

4. Nurse practitioners have an ethical duty to provide quality health care to patients.

The correct answer is: Nurse practitioners have an ethical duty to provide quality health care to patients.

In the context of a patient with a positive Mantoux test but no active tuberculosis (TB) symptoms, the most appropriate action is grounded in the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals. Healthcare providers, including nurse practitioners, are committed to delivering quality care to all patients, regardless of their legal status or other factors. This commitment is fundamental to the nursing profession's ethical standards, which emphasize respect for the dignity and rights of every individual. The ethical duty to provide quality healthcare includes evaluating the patient's needs, discussing the implications of test results, and developing a treatment plan if necessary, such as considering latent TB infection screening or treatment options. This approach aligns with the principles of patient-centered care, ensuring that the patient receives the appropriate evaluation and management without discrimination or bias based on their status. In this situation, focusing on the patient’s health needs and fostering a therapeutic relationship is essential. It is important to approach the situation with compassion and to guide the patient in understanding their health conditions while ensuring follow-up care.