PPD

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Hello nurses!

Quick question: I was taught in nursing school that the left forearm is the standard for PPD, although you may administer in right forearm if for some reason you can't use left for some reason.

Is this true? I'm asking because I said this to an LPN today, and she stated that she never heard/was taught this? Clarification, anyone.?

Can't for the life of me figure out what PPD is at 3am can anyone please enlighten?

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I have had it placed in my right arm and my left arm. As it was documented which arm the PPD was administered, it isn't a problem to figure out which arm to check when due. Honestly it all depended on what side of the room the desk was. If my right arm is resting on the desk, they use the right arm and if my left, well you get the picture.

This! Exactly I've had both or they'll ask which arm I want

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Specializes in retired LTC.

PPD = tuberculosis subcuteaneous injection

(purified protein derivative, I think ???)

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PPD = tuberculosis subcuteaneous injection

(purified protein derivative, I think ???)

Yep!!!

I would have just waited until the casts were off, unless the patient was hacking up a lung in the office, or high risk for TB.

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Specializes in retired LTC.

Far - no could do. LTC regs require PPD testing upon admission for all new admits. Had to be tested. My alternative would have been CXR.

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Specializes in PACU, pre/postoperative, ortho.
No, the mastectomy does not, but I find breast cancer survivors like to avoid the arm anyway.

I always get a little tickled by the diabetic pts who almost freak out if I start to do a fingerstick on the affected side. I always change sides to make them feel better, but ask "Have you ever scraped your finger before?" 😉

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Specializes in Infusion Nursing, Home Health Infusion.

Yoy can actually administer on any flat body surface area. If rhe or has no arm access you can give it over the scapula. I have had to do this a few times. For some odd reason the vascular access nurses have been giving it for decades..We have tried to push it off on any one else...but no one wants it so I just go with it!

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