Tuberculosis: An Update

Although the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) has begun to decrease in the United States, it continues to rise disproportionately among foreign-born, immunocompromised, and minority groups. In light of these changes, the purpose of this course is to provide healthcare professionals with the necessary information regarding TB diagnosis, treatment, and transmission prevention in order to decrease the morbidity of the disease among their patient populations and facilities. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.

Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Discuss the historical background of tuberculosis.
2. Describe the modes of transmission for tuberculosis.
3. Identify the three stages of tuberculosis.
4. List the signs and symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis.
5. Identify persons at high risk of contracting pulmonary tuberculosis.
6. Describe the methods of diagnosis used for suspected tuberculosis, including the necessity of a translator for assessing non-English proficient patients.
7. Characterize the important forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
8. Discuss the suggested treatment options for pulmonary tuberculosis.
9. Describe approaches to chemoprophylaxis of tuberculosis.
10. Identify patient teaching goals that help the patient understand and cope with the diagnosis of tuberculosis.

This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.