Comprehensive approach to tuberculosis care: insights from a regional workshop at Kauvery hospital, Electronic city

Vijayakumari. D1*, Shalini H S2, Rajamma3, Pavithra. B4

1Nurse Educator, Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City

2CNO, Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City

3Nursing Incharge, Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City

4DNS, Kauvery Hospital, Electronic City.

*Correspondence

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern globally, particularly in developing countries where the burden continues to be significant. Addressing TB effectively requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that integrates prevention, early diagnosis, effective treatment, infection control, and patient-centred care. A Regional Workshop titled “Comprehensive Approach to Tuberculosis Care” was conducted on March 23, 2026, at Kauvery Hospital under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB.” The workshop aimed to strengthen the knowledge, clinical skills, and collaborative practices of healthcare professionals, especially nursing staff. Expert-led sessions covered advanced nursing practices, innovations in TB diagnostics and treatment, integration of TB care with non-communicable diseases, infection control strategies, and nutritional management. Interactive activities including a skit, poster presentations, and quiz competition enhanced engagement and knowledge retention. The workshop proved to be highly effective in improving awareness, strengthening competencies, and motivating healthcare professionals toward achieving TB elimination goals.

Keywords: Tuberculosis; Comprehensive Care; Nursing Practice; Infection Control; Integrated Management; Workshop

Introduction

Tuberculosis continues to pose a serious challenge to global health systems despite the availability of effective diagnostic tools and treatment regimens. India, being one of the high TB burden countries, requires sustained efforts and innovative strategies to meet elimination targets. Tuberculosis remains one of the leading infectious diseases worldwide, significantly impacting morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Despite advancements in diagnostic technologies and treatment strategies, TB control continues to face challenges such as drug resistance, delayed diagnosis, and social determinants of health. The management of TB is no longer limited to pharmacological treatment alone; it requires a holistic approach involving early detection, adherence monitoring, infection prevention, nutritional support, and management of co-morbid conditions. Nurses and frontline healthcare workers play a pivotal role in implementing these strategies effectively. Recognizing the need for continuous professional development and updated clinical knowledge, Kauvery Hospital, electronic city organized a Regional Workshop to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, skill enhancement, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the workshop were:

  • To enhance understanding of tuberculosis prevention and management
  • To strengthen advanced nursing practices in TB care
  • To update healthcare professionals on recent innovations in diagnosis and treatment
  • To emphasize the importance of infection control in healthcare settings
  • To promote integrated and patient-centred care approaches
  • To highlight the role of nutrition in TB recovery

Inaugural Session and Leadership Insights

The workshop commenced with an inaugural session that set the academic and professional tone for the day.

Dr. Nagesh, Medical Director, HOD Anaesthesia emphasized the institutional commitment toward TB elimination and highlighted the importance of adopting standardized protocols and evidence-based practices in TB care. He stressed the need for collaboration among healthcare professionals to achieve better patient outcomes. Ms. Shalini HS, Chief Nursing Officer, highlighted the critical role of nurses as frontline caregivers. She emphasized that nurses are instrumental in early detection, patient counselling, ensuring treatment adherence, and providing holistic care to TB patients.

Scientific Sessions

The scientific sessions of the workshop provided a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of various aspects of tuberculosis care, delivered by subject experts from different specialties. Each session was designed to enhance both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding among participants.

The session on Advanced Nursing Practice in TB Prevention and Management, delivered by Ms. Shalini HS, Chief Nursing Officer, emphasized the pivotal role of nurses in the continuum of TB care. The discussion focused on early identification of symptoms, effective patient counselling, and the importance of ensuring treatment adherence. The speaker highlighted how nurses act as a critical link between patients and the healthcare system, playing a major role in patient education, follow-up, and community awareness initiatives. The session also stressed the importance of compassionate care and communication in improving patient outcomes.

The session on Innovations in TB Diagnosis, Treatment, and Care, presented by Dr. Sachin D, Consultant Pulmonologist, provided valuable insights into recent advancements in TB management. The speaker elaborated on rapid molecular diagnostic techniques that enable early and accurate detection of tuberculosis, including drug-resistant forms. Updated treatment regimens and shorter therapy durations were discussed, along with the importance of individualized patient care. The role of technology in monitoring treatment adherence and improving outcomes was also highlighted.

The session on Integrated Management of TB with Non-Communicable Diseases, conducted by Dr. Sabarish, Consultant addressed the growing challenge of managing TB in patients with co-morbid conditions such as diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. The speaker emphasized that these co-existing conditions significantly influence disease progression and treatment outcomes. The need for integrated screening, coordinated care, and multidisciplinary collaboration was strongly advocated to ensure holistic patient management.

The session on Infection Control Practices in Healthcare Settings, delivered by Dr. Akshatha Ravindra, Infectious Diseases Consultant, focused on strategies to prevent the transmission of tuberculosis within healthcare facilities. The speaker highlighted the importance of standard precautions, appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and implementation of isolation protocols. Environmental control measures such as adequate ventilation and infection surveillance systems were also discussed. The session reinforced that strict adherence to infection control practices is essential to protect both patients and healthcare workers.

The session on social determinants of Tuberculosis, delivered by Dr. Naganand, provided a comprehensive perspective on the non- medical factors influencing the incidence, progression & outcomes of TB. He stressed the importance of addressing the social determinants through community-based interventions, health education, improved living standards & strengthened the public health policies. The need of multisectoral approach involving health care systems government initiatives & community participation was strongly advocated to achieve sustainable TB control & eventual elimination

The session on Nutritional Management in TB Care, presented by Ms. Saheli Biswas, Lead Dietician, emphasized the critical role of nutrition in the recovery and overall well-being of TB patients. The speaker explained the relationship between malnutrition and disease progression, highlighting the need for adequate dietary intake to boost immunity and support healing. Practical approaches to diet planning, addressing nutrient deficiencies, and providing nutritional counselling were discussed, underlining the importance of integrating nutritional support into TB care protocols.

Overall, the scientific sessions were highly informative and provided a multidisciplinary perspective on tuberculosis care, reinforcing the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach in achieving better patient outcomes.

Creative and Academic Engagement

A TB awareness skit performed by the healthcare team effectively conveyed messages on stigma reduction and treatment adherence. Additionally, poster presentations by various units showcased innovative ideas and best practices, promoting academic engagement and knowledge sharing. This activity encouraged teamwork, creativity, and knowledge sharing among participants.

Interactive Learning

An engaging quiz competition was conducted to reinforce learning outcomes and encourage active participation. This interactive approach enhanced knowledge retention among participants.

Discussion

The workshop successfully addressed the need for continuous education and skill development in TB care. By integrating expert knowledge with interactive learning methods, it ensured better understanding and retention of key concepts. The focus on nursing roles, infection control, and integrated care reflects current global strategies aimed at TB elimination. Such workshops play a crucial role in translating knowledge into practice and improving patient outcomes.

Capacity-building programs such as this workshop play a vital role in strengthening healthcare systems. The integration of clinical knowledge with practical and interactive learning methods enhances retention and application in real-world settings. The inclusion of topics such as social determinants and nutrition reflects a shift toward holistic care. Additionally, the focus on innovations and multidisciplinary collaboration aligns with global strategies for TB elimination.

Conclusion

The regional workshop successfully achieved its objectives by enhancing knowledge, promoting best practices, and fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals. It reinforced the importance of a comprehensive approach involving clinical excellence, infection control, social awareness, and continuous education in the fight against tuberculosis. Sustained efforts through such educational initiatives are essential to achieving the goal of TB elimination.

The theme “Yes! We Can End TB” was effectively reinforced, motivating participants to actively contribute toward TB prevention, control, and eventual elimination.

The workshop reinforced a strong message: Ending TB is possible through collective effort, innovation, and sustained commitment.

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