When must new employees undergo tuberculosis screening?

New employees must undergo tuberculosis screening within 10 days of hire to comply with public health guidelines and ensure a safe working environment. This timeframe is established to prevent the potential spread of tuberculosis (TB) in a facility, especially in nursing homes where residents may be at higher risk due to age or underlying health conditions. Timely screening allows facilities to address any potential health risks posed by new staff members and ensures that individuals who may be contagious can receive treatment or take necessary precautions.

Selecting a timeframe of 10 days ensures a balance between providing new employees sufficient time to be screened without delaying the assessment of any health-related risks that could affect residents and other staff. This period aligns with best practices in occupational health and safety, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining a safe atmosphere for vulnerable populations.