NCLEX RN Physiological Integrity Related

Review NCLEX RN Physiological Integrity related questions and content

The nurse sends a sputum specimen to the laboratory for culture from a client with suspected active tuberculosis (TB). The results report that Mycobacterium tuberculosis is cultured. How should the nurse correctly analyze these results?

  • A. The results are positive for active tuberculosis.
  • B. The results indicate a less virulent strain of tuberculosis.
  • C. The results are inconclusive until a repeat sputum specimen is sent.
  • D. The results are unreliable unless the client has also had a positive tuberculin skin test (TST).
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Culture of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from sputum or other body secretions or tissue confirms the diagnosis of active tuberculosis.