Do you need to make a wheal?

[LovebugLPN]

I have given many TB tests and was always told it had to make a wheal to be an effective test. At my new place of employment the RN has given it to me and it seemed to be kinda deep (not at skin level) and of course no wheal was made. Does that make the test ineffective?

[youknowho]

yes you need to see a wheal. the test will not be accurate. you can ask for another to be sure. i like to refer to the Francis J. Curry website when I have a question about tb. here is a link to faq.

http://www.nationaltbcenter.edu/abouttb/tb_control_faq.cfm

[iluvivt, BSN, RN]

yep that is correct. In addition to IV therapy we do all the skin tests and reads (even for the employees). If you did not get a wheal the test needs to be repeated otherwise any result you get will be inaccurate and thus it is useless. you need to send this nurse a copy of supporting literature and highlight this section. ask for a repeat test

[kids]

A wheal is ideal but the reality is there are skin types you just aren't going to get one on no matter how many times you restick them, especially in the elderly.