Question

What size of induration should be considered a potentially positive tuberculin skin test on a client who is HIV infected?

A) 5 mm
B) 10 mm
C) 15 mm
D) 20 mm

Answer 1

Option A. An induration of 5 mm or more is considered potentially positive for a tuberculin skin test in an HIV-infected client, reflecting exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

A positive tuberculin skin test on an HIV-infected client is indicated by a raised red area known as an induration. The size of the induration determines whether the test is considered positive. In the case of an HIV-infected client, an induration size of 5 mm should be considered a potentially positive result.

An HIV-infected individual should consider an induration size of 5 mm or more as a potentially positive tuberculin skin test. In patients with HIV, a lowered threshold is used due to their compromised immune systems, which can result in a smaller reaction even when TB infection is present. A positive tuberculin test indicates that the patient has been exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and that a cellular immune response is occurring, evidenced by the presence of activated macrophages in the induration area.