- (a) The following flow chart shows the steps used in the diagnostic evaluation process.
(b) Bacteriologic examinations of specimens.
- (1) Persons with TB symptoms and/or chest x-ray suggestive of active TB will need bacteriologic evaluation of sputum or another specimen for "acid fast bacilli" (AFB) smear and culture.
- (2) Initially, a series of three early morning sputum specimens shall be collected on successive days and examined by smear and culture. Supervision shall be used to ensure proper specimen collection.
- (3) The Texas Department of Health will supply appropriate sputum collection materials and perform the smear and culture tests.
Source Note:The provisions of this §97.175 adopted to be effective May 16, 1994, 19 TexReg 3370.