Them 1:The importance of knowledge in tuberculosis treatment
Shaw clearly makes the point that despite tuberculosis becoming a leading a leading health-care problem, many nurses are unclear about the disease. The author also notes that although the UK is a developed nation it is still experiencing an increase in incidence and this is despite the fact that tuberculosis has traditionally been associated with poverty and social deprivation. Shaw states that all nursing staff should be aware of the risks associated with tuberculosis transmission, treatment and treatment non-compliance. Other authors also stress the need for increased awareness amongst nursing groups.
The DH, also identified that is a commonly held belief that tuberculosis is an 'old disease' and has disappeared from society and state that these myths need to be broken in order for tuberculosis to be identified earlier and for health staff to become more involved in the care of tuberculosis patients. Primary care staff need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease, local tuberculosis services and local referral pathways.