Final answer:
The nurse should measure and interpret the results 48-72 hours after administration. Therefore, the correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
Administering a tuberculin skin test (TST) is a standard procedure for screening individuals for tuberculosis (TB). The correct action is to measure and interpret the results 48-72 hours after administration. This timeframe is crucial because the reaction to the test takes time to develop, and waiting too long or too soon can lead to inaccurate results.
The tuberculin skin test involves injecting a small amount of tuberculin antigen just beneath the skin. The delayed hypersensitivity reaction to this antigen is what the nurse is assessing. Reading the test too early might miss a developing reaction, while reading it too late could result in misinterpretation. The recommended 48-72 hour window allows for optimal accuracy in determining whether there is a positive or negative reaction to the test.
This approach aligns with evidence-based practice and ensures that the nurse obtains reliable information for appropriate follow-up and intervention based on the individual's TB status. Administering the test in clients' homes, using a specific needle size, or applying a sterile dressing are not primary considerations for the accurate interpretation of the tuberculin skin test.
Therefore, the correct option is c.