Infection Control · single question
A dental assistant going to work with homeless populations should be screened for which disease BEFORE starting work?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Tuberculosis (TB)
- A. Correct. TUBERCULOSIS (TB) has significantly higher prevalence in homeless populations. OSHA and public health guidelines recommend TB screening (tuberculin skin test or IGRA) for healthcare workers before beginning work in settings with high-risk populations including the homeless. Annual rescreening is recommended.
- B. Incorrect. While pneumonia screening could be relevant, TB screening is the priority for workers in high-risk environments.
- C. Incorrect. HIV screening is not a standard pre-employment requirement for dental workers.
- D. Incorrect. HCV screening is important but TB is the primary public health concern for workers with homeless populations.
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