Going into nursing with dormant TB, is that ok?

Before you enter the nursing program, they run some test, one is to make sure your negative of having TB. I have TB but it has been dormant for more then ten years. Would I have a problem getting accepted into the program? Is Dormant TB ok?

Im Havent started yet, i start in august and im going to get my ADN in Registered Nursing.

If this program is anything like the dental hygienists program that I will be starting- they are going to ask you to complete a comprehensive physical exam. Once that is completed the doctor will have to state whether or not you are physically capable to work in a nursing/care giver capacity. The doctor should ask you questions regarding your health; both past and present illnesses should be one of them. Be up front, blood work will be done too. Normal hepB shots and a TB test are probably normal things too.

If your TB is dormant and has been for 10 years, the doctor should be able to look into this and give you a yes or no answer right there- he/she might run some additional precautionary tests just to be sure. From what I remember in microbiology; unless the TB is active you should be ok.

Just remember- If your doctor says you are good to start; then you are good to start.


Good Luck and Good career choice.

You need to ask beforehand, call the school and ask, most importantly find out what the hospital and nursing facility policies are.

Generally yes, but you will test positive on the ppd so you may be asked to have a chest xray before you start.