Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 17

Now that you have completed this study session, you can assess how well you have achieved its Learning Outcomes by answering these questions. Write your answers in your Study Diary and discuss them with your Tutor at the next Study Support Meeting. You can check your answers with the Notes on the Self-Assessment Questions at the end of this Module.

SAQ 17.1 (tests Learning Outcomes 17.1, 17.2, 17.3, 17.4 and 17.6)

  • a.What is meant by TB infection control?
  • b.What are the standard (universal) precautions that should be taken when dealing with TB suspected cases?

Answer

  • a.TB infection control is a combination of measures aimed at minimising the risk of TB transmission.
  • b.Standard universal precautions include:
  • hand washing and antisepsis
  • use of personal protective equipment (e.g. gloves)
  • appropriate handling of patient care equipment and soiled cloths
  • prevention of needle stick/sharp injuries
  • environmental cleaning and spills management
  • appropriate handling of clinical waste.

SAQ 17.2 (tests Learning Outcomes 17.4, 17.5 and 17.6)

  • a.What administrative control interventions are needed for TB control at the level of the healthcare facility?
  • b.What are the personal protective measures you would recommend for a healthworker giving care to drug-resistant TB patients in their homes?

Answer

  • a.Administrative control interventions needed at healthcare facility level are: triage (identify TB suspects and refer them for investigation), physical separation (cohorting) or isolation of patients or TB suspects, cough manners and minimizing time spent in healthcare settings.
  • b.Respirators for health workers and surgical masks for the patients.

SAQ 17.3 (tests Learning Outcomes 17.3, 17.4, 17.5 and 17.6)

What community-based TB control measures could you use in your village to limit the spread of TB? Try to think of at least five ways you could help to reduce TB in your community.

Answer

You could use the following measures:

  • Create awareness about TB on routes of transmission, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
  • Identify and refer TB suspects to a higher health facility for diagnosis and treatment.
  • Educate on TB vaccination (BCG), cough manners and respiratory hygiene.
  • Supervise TB treatment for patients on anti-TB drugs.
  • Keep TB patients’ records updated.
  • Advise TB patients to have HIV screening and HIV patients to have TB screening.
  • Involve the community members and previous TB patients in TB awareness and prevention campaigns (advocacy, communication, social mobilisation).

Summary of Study Session 17