The main strategy of THE Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program is

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

Explanation

The core of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) is the DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course) strategy.
This approach was adopted as the most systematic and cost-effective method to revitalize TB control in India, as stated in national health program guidelines.
DOTS focuses on ensuring treatment completion through direct supervision, which is critical for curing the patient and preventing the emergence of drug-resistant strains.
The primary objectives of RNTCP were to achieve a high cure rate (at least 85%) and detect a majority of cases, both of which are facilitated by the DOTS framework.

Option A: The District TB Centre (DTC) is an essential part of the program's infrastructure, serving a managerial and administrative role. It is not the treatment strategy itself.
Option B: Involving NGOs is a supportive component of the RNTCP, helping with outreach and patient support, but it is not the central, defining strategy of the program.
Option D: Vaccination (BCG) is a primary preventive measure against severe childhood TB and is part of the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP), not the main treatment strategy of RNTCP for the general population.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Core strategy of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's role is central to DOTS implementation, including administering medication, monitoring for side effects, providing patient education, and ensuring adherence.
The success of DOTS directly contributes to reducing the incidence of Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR-TB), a major public health threat that is more difficult and expensive to treat.
What if? If a patient lives in a remote area and cannot visit a clinic daily, the DOTS strategy can be adapted. A community health worker (like an ASHA), a trained volunteer, or even a family member can be designated as the DOT provider to ensure treatment continuity.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it asks for the 'main strategy' of the RNTCP.
Analyze the options to differentiate between a core strategy, a supportive function, an administrative structure, and a preventive measure for a specific population.
Recall or deduce that RNTCP's primary goal is to cure active TB and stop its transmission. The term 'strategy' points to the method of treatment delivery.
Evaluate each option: 'District TB centre' is infrastructure. 'Involvement of NGOs' is support. 'Vaccine' is prevention for infants. 'DOTS' is a specific, comprehensive treatment strategy.
Conclude that DOTS is the only option that represents the main, overarching strategy for treatment and control within the program.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Core strategy of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP)
Stem keywords: Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program, RNTCP, main strategy
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) pp. 102-104, 106-108

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