Tuberculosis prevention questionnaire: common practices among pulmonary medicine and infectious disease specialists in Puerto Rico
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Updated: Oct 18, 2026
The MODS method for diagnosis of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Published on: August 11, 2008
Abstract:
A survey about tuberculosis infection status, surveillance and protection practices among pulmonologists and infectologists was performed.A fourteen-item questionnaire was mailed. The survey was addressed to 108 pulmonologists and 61 infectologists. Responses were collected from 35 pulmonologists (32%) and 18 infectologists (29%). Sixteen out 35 pulmonologists had a positive tuberculin test (TST) (46%). Nine of fourteen took at least 6 months of preventive therapy with isoniazid when converted. Three out of eighteen infectologists had a positive TST. 63% of the pulmonologists and 38% of the infectologists evaluate their TST every 12 months. 40% of the pulmonologists and 66% of the infectologists answered that they treat more than ten patients with tuberculosis annually. Interestingly, 50% of the responder bronchoscopists use surgical masks instead of recommended HEPA filter masks. 73% of the responders reported not having negative pressure rooms when performing procedures. Despite stamped-addressed envelopes and the relation of these professionals with the related issue, low participation was observed.Among the responders a low frequency of TST was observed, especially in those exposed to higher-risk procedures. Non-adequate facilities and lack of use of protective equipment was reported. Even though not representative of the entire medical community the results of this survey are concerning regarding educational and safety policies of our professionals and institutions.
Insights
Pulmonologists and infectologists showed low tuberculosis infection surveillance and protection practices. Many reported inadequate facilities and protective equipment use, raising concerns about healthcare worker safety and institutional policies.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health concern, necessitating stringent infection control measures, especially for healthcare professionals.
- Pulmonologists and infectologists, due to their direct patient contact, are at increased risk of TB exposure.
- Assessing current practices is crucial for improving occupational safety and TB surveillance among these specialists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the tuberculosis infection status, surveillance, and protection practices among pulmonologists and infectologists.
- To identify gaps in safety protocols and protective equipment usage in clinical settings.
- To highlight potential areas for improvement in institutional policies and professional education regarding TB prevention.
Main Methods:
- A survey questionnaire was mailed to 108 pulmonologists and 61 infectologists.
- Data collection focused on tuberculin skin test (TST) status, preventive therapy, TB patient management, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Response rates were 32% for pulmonologists and 29% for infectologists.
Main Results:
- 46% of responding pulmonologists and 11% of infectologists had a positive tuberculin skin test (TST).
- Only 46% of pulmonologists with a positive TST underwent recommended preventive therapy.
- 50% of bronchoscopists used surgical masks instead of HEPA filters, and 73% lacked negative pressure rooms during procedures.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of surveyed pulmonologists and infectologists exhibited suboptimal TB infection surveillance and protection practices.
- Inadequate use of personal protective equipment and insufficient facility infrastructure were reported, particularly during high-risk procedures.
- The findings underscore the need for enhanced educational and safety policies to protect healthcare workers from occupational TB exposure.
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