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TB Airborne Precautions — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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EasyInfection Prevention & ControlTB Airborne PrecautionsSCE Infectious Diseases

A hospital infection prevention team is implementing transmission-based precautions. A patient is admitted with suspected pulmonary TB (coughing, smear-positive sputum). What type of isolation and personal protective equipment is required?

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Correct answer: E — Airborne precautions: negative-pressure single room and FFP3 respirator masks for staff entering the room

Smear-positive pulmonary TB is transmitted by airborne droplet nuclei (<5 µm) that remain suspended in air. Airborne precautions require: single-room isolation with negative pressure ventilation (≥6 air changes/hour with air exhausted externally or through HEPA filters), and FFP3 respirator masks for all staff entering the room. Standard surgical masks are insufficient for airborne precautions. The patient should wear a surgical mask when leaving the room. Airborne precautions continue until smear conversion (usually after ≥2 weeks of effective therapy with improving symptoms).

Reference: NICE NG33 2016 – TB; UKHSA 2024 – TB IPC guidance; NHS England IPC manual