Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which group of children is least at risk for tuberculosis?

1. A child who has recently been diagnosed with leukemia

2. An infant whose family is homeless

3. A child who was born in Japan

4. A Hispanic child with asthma who is using a steroid inhaler

The correct answer is: A child who was born in Japan

The correct choice regarding which group of children is least at risk for tuberculosis is the child who was born in Japan. Japan has relatively low rates of tuberculosis compared to many other countries. The country has implemented effective public health measures, including vaccination programs and screening initiatives, which have contributed to controlling the incidence of TB. Consequently, a child born in Japan is less likely to have been exposed to tuberculosis as compared to children from high-risk categories or environments. In contrast, the other options present scenarios where children may have higher risks of tuberculosis exposure or disease. A child recently diagnosed with leukemia is at increased risk because leukemia and other immunocompromising conditions may weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections, including TB. An infant in a homeless family is also at increased risk due to potential exposure to crowded living conditions and lack of access to healthcare. Lastly, a Hispanic child with asthma using a steroid inhaler may face a heightened risk for tuberculosis, as long-term steroid use can suppress the immune response. Thus, the child born in Japan stands out as the least at risk within this context, highlighting the significance of geographic and health factors in assessing tuberculosis vulnerability.