Tuberculosis (TB) Skin Testing

Tuberculin (TB) Skin Test Requirements

A TB Skin Test is an annual requirement for all nursing students. Testing must be completed by a Health Care Provider (HCP) who routinely performs TB Skin Tests.

  • Acceptable Locations: Lakehead University Student Health and Wellness, walk-in clinics, or your regular HCP (if TB Skin Testing is part of their regular practice).
  • Not Accepted: TB Skin Tests performed by family members, workplaces without an Occupational Health and Safety Department, or those recorded on immunization records.

Forms and Documentation

Required forms (1-Step and 2-Step) are available here. 

  • The HCP must complete the appropriate form or provide equivalent documentation that includes:
    • Date Administered // Date Read // Result (for each step)
    • HCP's printed name and signature
    • Clinic name and full address (a stamp is acceptable)
    • If a different person administered and read the test, both names and signatures must be included

Year 1 Nursing Students - 2-Step Tb Skin Test Required

A 2-Step Skin Test requires four appointments:

  1. First Appointment: Skin Test #1 is administered
  2. Second Appointment (48-72 hours later): Skin Test #1 results read
  3. Third Appointment (1-4 weeks later): Skin Test #2 is administered
  4. Fourth Appointment (48-72 hours later): Skin Test #2 results read

It is preferred that students bring the 2-Step TB Skin Test form to all appointments for accurate completion.

Please Note: If a previous 2-Step TB Skin Test has been completed, submit a copy of that along with a current 1-Step TB Skin Test (covering the upcoming academic year).

Returning Year 2-4 Nursing Students - 1-Step TB Skin Test Required

A 1-Step TB Skin Test requires two appointments:

  1. First Appointment: Skin Test administered
  2. Second Appointment (48-72 hours later): Skin Test results read

It is preferred that students bring the 1-Step TB Skin Test form to all appointments for accurate completion. 

Positive TB Skin Test Results

A result of 10 mm or greater is considered positive.

  • If you test positive you are required to submit a chest X-ray showing no evidence of active TB. Please also submit a TB Status Declaration Form located here.
  • If asymptomatic and cleared by a chest X-ray, the student may attend clinical.
  • No further TB Skin testing is required after a positive result.

If you have previously tested positive:

  • Do not get a TB Skin Test.
  • Submit a copy of the positive TB Skin Test and a recent chest X-ray report showing no evidence of active TB. Please also submit a TB Status Declaration Form located here.
  • If your HCP later orders another X-ray during your time in the program, a copy of that report must also be submitted to the School of Nursing.