Management of health care workers after inadvertent exposure to tuberculosis: a guide for the use of preventive therapy
Article Abstract:
Previous exposure to tuberculosis (TB) may determine the course of treatment for health care workers exposed to a new case of the disease. A researcher reviewed outbreaks from 22 nursing homes, 5 outbreaks before the use of chemotherapy, and 6 outbreaks since 1980. Comparisons were made between workers based on their TB test records. Many health care workers who had a previously negative TB skin test converted to a positive skin test when exposed to a new case. Prior to the use of chemotherapy, 37% of those workers with a converted test developed TB. Early intervention with chemotherapy for workers with a new positive TB skin test has reduced the number of workers developing TB to 19%. All health care workers who had previously tested positive on a skin test for TB never developed the disease after being exposed to a new case. Generally, healthy persons with negative skin tests over a period of time do not need prophylactic treatment. Persons having a new positive test after heavy exposure should be started on chemotherapy immediately. Persons who were test positive before exposure but remain asymptomatic are usually immune and do not need treatment.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1995
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Occupationally acquired infections in health care workers, part 1
Article Abstract:
The transmission of airborne infections to health care workers appears to be a frequent, costly, and largely preventable health care issue. A researcher summarized the studies published between January 1983 and February 1996 that addressed the types, frequencies, and costs of infections transmitted to health care workers. Fifteen percent to 40% of health care workers become infected after exposure to an infectious outbreak. Infections transmitted to health care workers include chicken pox, measles, tuberculosis, and influenza. Effective control measures include patient isolation, handwashing, and vaccination.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1996
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Vaccines for tuberculosis: the glass remains half empty
Article Abstract:
Treatment and prevention of tuberculosis continues to be a challenge. Studies examining the effectiveness of vaccines against tuberculosis have had mixed results. Most vaccines have not been shown to be effective in populations at greatest risk. However, currently developing technology may surmount this challenge. Resistance to available treatment medications has also grown. Children and health care workers routinely exposed to infected patients resistant to medication may be appropriate candidates for vaccination.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1997
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