Question

The nurse is reviewing the diagnostic tests prescribed for a client with a positive skin test. Which subjective findings reported by the client supports the diagnosis of tuberculosis?

A. Barking cough and vomiting
B. Mucopurulent cough and night sweats
C. Dry cough and chest tightness
D. Chronic cough and fatty stools

Answer 1

Subjective findings that support the diagnosis of tuberculosis include a mucopurulent cough and night sweats, consistent with the clinical presentation of tuberculosis and a positive tuberculin skin test.

Step-by-step explanation:

The diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) is supported by subjective findings reported by the client who has a positive skin test. Among the options provided, the subjective findings that most strongly support a diagnosis of tuberculosis would be mucopurulent cough and night sweats. These symptoms are indicative of the classic clinical presentation for TB, which can include a persistent cough that may produce sputum, night sweats, fever, and weight loss.

A positive tuberculin skin test indicates that the patient has been exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and that their immune system has mounted a response to the bacterial proteins. However, additional tests such as chest radiographs and sputum samples are usually required to confirm active tuberculosis infection.