Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

Isolating the patient is important to minimize exposure to others, as tuberculosis is a highly communicable airborne disease, and the symptoms described are strongly indicative of suspected active tuberculosis. Immediate isolation helps control the spread of the bacteria to patients and healthcare workers in the emergency setting, consistent with infection control protocols. Conducting further medical evaluation without isolation could result in spreading the disease. A complete physical and a chest X-ray are necessary but should be conducted in a controlled environment after the patient has been isolated. Starting antitubercular medication without definitive diagnosis could be inappropriate and potentially harmful.