Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(^138) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?
The patient inhales radioactive gas mixed with oxygen for the ventilation phase.
Radioisotopes are intravenously injected into the patient’s veins using an IV access
for the perfusion phase.
WHAT TO DO?

• Before the test:
  
  
  • Explain the procedure to the patient.
  
  
  
  


• During the test:
  
  
  • The patient must lie still for the testing, holding his or her breath as
    directed.
  
  
  
  

Mantoux Intradermal Skin Test (PPD)

WHY IS IT GIVEN?

This determines if the patient has antibodies to the Mycobacterium tuberculosis

bacteria, which indicates that the patient has been exposed to the bacteria.

HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?

An injection of tuberculin is given intradermally. The test is positive if an in-

durated area appears around the injection site after 48 to 72 hours. A positive test

indicates the presence of antibodies. Further testing is used to confirm that the

patient has TB. Following a positive Mantoux test, the patient will typically be

sent for a chest x-ray and may have a sputum culture for mycobacterium done.

WHAT TO DO?

• Before the test:
  
  
  • Explain to the patient why the test is being done, and that a positive result
    means that the patient has been exposed to TB. Further testing would need
    to be done to know if disease is currently present.