TB skin test, no bleb

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

Will a positive TB skin test result still show up, if there is no "bleb" evident when the test is performed? As in, that antibody is injected under the skin but perhaps a little deeper than that first layer, and no "bleb" comes up. Thanks! (I did "google" this but couldn't find anything..) Thank you.

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

I hate to tell you this, but you need to have that TB test done again. I've done literally hundreds of these, and I learned early on that the test had to be repeated if I accidentally injected too deep, because it could result in a false negative.

Naturally, the folks I was doing the test on were not too happy when that happened, so I worked on perfecting my technique until I could produce a bleb in my sleep........but that's another story.:)

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Specializes in NICU, Psych, Education.

In its 'Guide for Primary Health Care Providers: Targeted Tuberculin Testing and Treatment of Latent Tuberculosis Infection 2005', the CDC recommends repeating the test on the other arm or at least 2 inches away from the first site IF no wheal forms or if the initial wheal is less than 6 mm in diameter.

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

Thanks you all... this is a mistake I made so I guess I will have to do another test on this kid, I thought it would be OK. That nurse is going to hate me calling to tell her that!!! I am so stupid. I guess I should have re-done the test right away. Well I guess I can make amends now. :( :(

Edit: Well I just called... he is in surgery but his nurse will check his arm when he gets back... she was very nice about it even though I felt so stupid!!!

See, I did it in the early morning and didn't want to turn on the light to bother him... no more of that!!! I hope she does not have to do another one on top of a busy day.

Now I can't sleep... I'm on call tonight too and we are short so I'll probably be going in. THANK YOU sooo much for your verry quick replies!!! This is a wonderful website.

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

Now, now.....You are NOT stupid, you just didn't know. You did the right thing, you asked the questions, and now you know. You'll never make this mistake again, so take it easy on yourself, 'K?:)

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Specializes in Pediatrics.
Now, now.....You are NOT stupid, you just didn't know. You did the right thing, you asked the questions, and now you know. You'll never make this mistake again, so take it easy on yourself, 'K?:)

OK, OK... :p I'll try!! thanks Marla... :)

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How wonderful that you asked rather than assumed. Many of us that give TB tests did the same thing as you when we first started. You will know in the future to redo the test so relax and have a great day.

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