Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Tuberculosis may be transmitted?

1. Through a protective mask

2. By dancing

3. By wearing gloves

4. By coughing

The correct answer is: By coughing

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infectious disease primarily caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The most common mode of transmission is through respiratory droplets that are expelled when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks. When someone with active TB coughs, they release tiny droplets that can be inhaled by others in close proximity, leading to potential infection. In contrast, a protective mask primarily serves to reduce the risk of transmission from the infected person to others; however, it does not negate the fact that coughing is the primary method by which TB is spread. Activities such as dancing do not facilitate TB transmission since it is not spread through physical touch or casual interaction but rather through the air. Gloves are typically used for direct contact with bodily fluids or in situations requiring hygiene precautions but do not relate to TB transmission. Thus, acknowledging that the primary route for the spread of tuberculosis is through the act of coughing clarifies why this option is the correct answer in the context of how TB is transmitted.