How often must a facility assess its risk of exposure to TB?

Facilities are required to assess their risk of exposure to tuberculosis (TB) on an annual basis to ensure that appropriate measures and protocols are in place for prevention and control. This annual assessment is crucial because it allows healthcare institutions to regularly re-evaluate potential sources of transmission, effectiveness of existing controls, and the overall preparedness of staff and systems in dealing with TB.

The rationale behind the annual requirement stems from the understanding that TB transmission dynamics can change over time due to various factors such as changes in patient populations, the appearance of new outbreaks, or shifts in community spread. Regular assessments help to identify any new risks or vulnerabilities that may develop, ensuring a proactive rather than reactive approach to TB management in healthcare settings.

Other frequencies of assessment, such as bi-annually or every five years, are insufficient to address the ongoing risk that TB poses, particularly in nursing care settings where susceptible populations are present. Only assessing risk in the event of an outbreak does not provide adequate safeguards for residents or staff, as it leaves facilities unprepared for potential exposure before a crisis occurs.