Mantoux

[azgirl]

Does anyone know how often you can safely get a new ppd? I work registry and am running into the individual facilities I work at each want to do their own ppd. I had the current documentation but had to get additional ppd's. That seems unsafe to take multiple tests. Is it?

[Havin' A Party!, ASN, RN]

AZ -- Good question.

Had the PPD done last August at one hospital. When I signed up with another facility in January, was informed they needed there own and just went ahead with it.

Didn't bother to check on it as they stated it'd be safe. Should've though.

Do let us know if you find anything definitive. Thanks!

[unknown99, BSN, RN]

The recommendations are to get one no sooner than 30 days after the 2nd step. However, it would be advisable to make copies of your most current one done, and give it to each registry. That is perfectly acceptable by a infection control standpoint. If the registry will ot accept it, then tell them you cannot accept their assignment... I bet they change their minds REAL quick!!!

[purplemania, BSN, RN]

check the CDC site. I believe they state ppd can be done frequently.

http://www.cdc.gov

[prmenrs, RN]

I checked w/a friend who is an authority on the subject, she said it won't hurt you to get all these skin tests, but it certainly is annoying and NOT cost-effective for the hospitals to keep repeating these skin tests. Be sure and keep your documentation w/you, along w/license, CPR card, etc.

I hope they'll stop making you get extra skin tests--that's just silly!