Section I: What is tuberculosis – general information: |
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What tuberculosis is and how it is spread
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When TB is contagious and when it is not
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Common signs and symptoms of TB
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An emphasis that anyone (regardless of educational background, socioeconomic class, race or sex) can develop tuberculosis
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Section II: Detection and treatment of TB |
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How TB is detected and diagnosed, including roles of chest x-ray and sputum collections
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How TB is treated, including the principles of combination drug therapy including:
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The role of directly observed therapy (DOT)
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Duration of therapy divided into two phases:
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Explanation of the different approaches for the re-treatment of TB and drug-resistant TB
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Emphasis that TB is a very treatable and curable disease through successfully completing the medication program.
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Discussion of common TB drug side effects (including the expectation of rifampin-induced orange discoloration of urine and tears)
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Reemphasizing the importance of completing entire treatment course (even when feeling better)
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Rationale for contact investigations of family members and other close contacts by MOH nurses.
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Section III: addressing misconceptions / misunderstandings of TB |
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Addressing specific misconceptions and misunderstandings of tuberculosis
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Section IV: patient testimonials (successful completion of TB therapy) |
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