Stressing out about my TB skin Test...

[NursingStudent7777]

Today, I got the 2nd step done of my two step TB skin test. Not until later on in the day did I realize that I got my 2nd test done ON THE SAME ARM. Now I read on the internet that you can get it done on the same arm as long as it is 2 inches away. I had the first test done a little over 3 weeks ago.

My concern is, since the 2nd test was done on the same arm and I can't remember exactly where I had the first one done (to see if it was done 2 inches away from the first site)

I think on Monday (When I get the second one checked), I will call my school AND the doctor's office to see what they think I should do.

What does everyone else think?

Worst case scenario: I probably will have to do another one on the other arm.

[DragonNerd]

I had both mine done in the same arm about a week apart when I did my 2-step. It wasn't an issue, and they were in about the same spot.

[NursingStudent7777]

Ok. Thank you so much for responding! I was feeling really down about it but you just made me feel better :)

[Double-Helix, BSN, RN]

If it's not already swollen or indurated, I wouldn't worry about it.

[Extra Pickles]

Normal and common practice to have it done on the same arm in the same area. If there is any lasting mark of any kind from the first test it is easy to see what the second test looks like compared to it. Nothing is wrong here.

[WanderingWilder, ASN]

Mine has always been done on the same arm.

[NursingStudent7777]

Thank you so much everyone! You are all making me feel much better about it! :)

[vampiregirl, BSN, RN]

The reference to the site being 2 inches away from the previous site was likely a reference to when the administration of the tuberculin does not yield an adequate wheal and must be redone.

It's not a problem for the 2nd step to be done on the same arm as the initial step.

Here's a link to some info:

https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/posters/images/mantoux_wallchart.pdf