Choosing the Right Syringes and Needles for Tuberculosis Screening

Which syringes and needles should the nurse choose for a tuberculosis screening?

Understanding the Correct Supplies for Tuberculosis Screening

The nurse is preparing supplies for a tuberculosis screening. The correct choice of syringes and needles for this procedure is a) 1 mL syringe; ½-inch, 26-gauge needle. This setup is typically used for a Mantoux test, which is the standard method for administering a tuberculosis (TB) skin test.

The small volume syringe and fine-gauge needle are ideal for the intradermal injection required to deliver the tuberculin purified protein derivative (PPD) just beneath the surface of the skin. This ensures accurate results and minimizes the risk of false positives or negatives.

Larger syringes and needles, such as those mentioned in options b, c, and d, are not suitable for this delicate procedure. Using the wrong supplies can lead to improper administration of the test and affect the accuracy of the screening results.

Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to select the appropriate syringes and needles to perform the Mantoux test accurately and ensure the best possible outcomes for the tuberculosis screening.