1.
What was one of the first public health measures legislated by the U.S. federal government?
Correct Answer
B. Using the power to impose quarantine
Explanation
Using the power to impose quarantine was one of the first public health measures legislated by the U.S. federal government. Quarantine is a practice of isolating individuals who have been exposed to a contagious disease to prevent its spread. This measure was implemented to limit the transmission of diseases such as smallpox, cholera, and yellow fever. By imposing quarantine, the government aimed to protect the public health and prevent the spread of infectious diseases within the population.
2.
What scientific criteria were developed by Jacob Henle to link an organism to its specific disease?
Correct Answer
D. Identify the organism, isolate the organism, and see if the organism produces disease.
Explanation
Jacob Henle developed the scientific criteria of identifying the organism, isolating it, and observing if it produces disease. This method allows for the direct connection between a specific organism and the disease it causes. By isolating the organism and testing its ability to produce disease, researchers can determine if it is the causative agent of a particular illness. This approach helps in understanding the relationship between organisms and diseases and is crucial in the field of microbiology and infectious diseases.
3.
In what way are antibiotics important in reducing the spread of communicable diseases?
Correct Answer
D. They reduce the time during which the disease is contagious in the infected person.
Explanation
Antibiotics are important in reducing the spread of communicable diseases because they can shorten the duration of the contagious period in an infected person. By targeting and killing the infectious agent, antibiotics can help to control the replication and spread of the pathogen within the body. This reduces the time during which the infected person can transmit the disease to others, ultimately limiting the overall spread of the disease in the population.
4.
Which of the following actions have had the most success in protecting the publics health?
Correct Answer
D. Safe water and sewage systems, as well as milk pasteurization
Explanation
Safe water and sewage systems, as well as milk pasteurization, have had the most success in protecting the public's health. These actions have been crucial in preventing the spread of waterborne diseases and improving overall sanitation. Safe water and sewage systems ensure that people have access to clean drinking water and proper disposal of waste, reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses such as cholera and typhoid. Milk pasteurization, on the other hand, kills harmful bacteria in milk, preventing the transmission of diseases like tuberculosis and brucellosis. These measures have significantly contributed to improving public health and reducing the incidence of infectious diseases.
5.
Which of the following statements concerning infectious diseases in the United States today is true?
Correct Answer
A. They account for 25% of all pHysician visits and are still a major cause of death.
Explanation
Infectious diseases in the United States today account for 25% of all physician visits and are still a major cause of death. This suggests that infectious diseases continue to have a significant impact on the healthcare system and mortality rates in the country. Despite advancements in healthcare and public health measures, infectious diseases remain a significant concern in the United States.
6.
Which of the following contributed to several measles epidemics in the 1990s?
Correct Answer
C. The measles vaccine did not provide lifetime immunity.
Explanation
The correct answer is that the measles vaccine did not provide lifetime immunity. This means that individuals who received the vaccine were not fully protected against the measles virus for their entire lives. As a result, there were several measles epidemics in the 1990s because the vaccine's protection waned over time, leaving individuals susceptible to the virus.
7.
Which of the following is the reason for mumps outbreaks among young adults?
Correct Answer
C. The mumps vaccine does not provide lifetime immunity.
Explanation
The mumps vaccine does not provide lifetime immunity. This means that even if individuals have received the vaccine in the past, they may still be susceptible to the virus as they grow older. This lack of lifelong immunity can contribute to mumps outbreaks among young adults, as their immunity from previous vaccinations may have waned over time. It highlights the importance of regular booster shots to maintain immunity against mumps and prevent outbreaks.
8.
A mother wanted her child vaccinated against measles. When she read the benefits and risks sheet, she changed her mind. Her child was the only one in the class who did not get immunized. What is the probable risk of her child getting measles in elementary school?
Correct Answer
C. Low, as most of the children playmates have been immunized
Explanation
The probable risk of the child getting measles in elementary school is low because most of the child's playmates have been immunized. Vaccination helps to create herd immunity, meaning that when a large percentage of the population is vaccinated, it reduces the spread of the disease and protects those who are unable to be vaccinated. Since the child's playmates have been immunized, it decreases the likelihood of the child being exposed to measles.
9.
Which of the following groups is most at risk today for an outbreak of pneumococcal pneumonia?
Correct Answer
B. Persons older than 65 who live in nursing homes and other extended-care facilities
Explanation
Persons older than 65 who live in nursing homes and other extended-care facilities are most at risk for an outbreak of pneumococcal pneumonia because they are more likely to have weakened immune systems and underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to infections. Additionally, living in close quarters with others increases the risk of transmission of the bacteria that causes pneumococcal pneumonia.
10.
A man had a viral upper respiratory tract infection and was seen by a family nurse practitioner (FNP). The FNP gave the man both verbal and written information about over-the-counter drugs to control symptoms. However, the patient insisted upon a prescription for an antibiotic. Which of the following would be the most appropriate response from the FNP?
Correct Answer
A. Antibiotics wont be helpful in treating this infection, but they may allow bacteria that will be immune to antibiotics to develop, putting you at high risk for getting sicker.
Explanation
The most appropriate response from the FNP is to explain to the patient that antibiotics will not be effective in treating a viral upper respiratory tract infection. In addition, the FNP should inform the patient that taking antibiotics unnecessarily can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can put the patient at a higher risk of getting sicker in the future. This response educates the patient about the appropriate use of antibiotics and the potential risks associated with their misuse.
11.
Which of the following persons would be most at risk for contracting an infectious disease?
Correct Answer
B. The elderly woman who recently emigrated with her family from Asia
Explanation
The elderly woman who recently emigrated with her family from Asia would be most at risk for contracting an infectious disease. This is because she has potentially been exposed to different pathogens in her home country that she may not have immunity against. Additionally, the change in environment and living conditions could weaken her immune system, making her more susceptible to infections. The other options, such as the woman taking antituberculosis medication, the full-time nurse, and the volunteer nurse aide, are all in professions or situations where they are likely to have some level of protection or knowledge about infectious diseases.
12.
For what infection are health care professionals particularly at risk?
Correct Answer
B. Hepatitis B virus (HBV)
Explanation
Health care professionals are particularly at risk for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. This is because HBV is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids. Health care professionals often come into contact with blood and body fluids while providing medical care, making them more susceptible to HBV infection. It is important for health care professionals to take precautions such as getting vaccinated and following proper infection control practices to prevent the transmission of HBV.
13.
Why, after each hike, did the nurse insist on the scouts checking each other for ticks?
Correct Answer
C. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, which is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States.
Explanation
Ticks can carry Lyme disease, which is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. Lyme disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause a range of symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. In some cases, it can lead to more severe complications affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. Checking for ticks after each hike is important to prevent the transmission of Lyme disease and ensure early detection and treatment if necessary.
14.
People are fearful of the West Nile virus. Which of the following statements could a nurse truthfully say to them?
Correct Answer
C. Wear insect repellent because the disease is spread by infected mosquitoes.
Explanation
The nurse could truthfully say that wearing insect repellent is necessary to protect oneself from the West Nile virus because the disease is spread by infected mosquitoes. This statement provides a practical measure that individuals can take to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. It does not provide false information or make any claims about the disease being present in isolated areas or the need to avoid specific locations.
15.
Which of the following persons would be most likely to experience illness?
Correct Answer
C. The young woman whose first child has just been enrolled in daycare
Explanation
The young woman whose first child has just been enrolled in daycare would be most likely to experience illness because young children in daycare are often exposed to various viruses and bacteria, increasing the risk of illness. Additionally, as a new mother, she may experience fatigue and stress, which can weaken the immune system and make her more susceptible to getting sick.
16.
Which of the following populations within the hospital should be the focus of infection control when a nurse is trying to decrease the rate of nosocomial infections?
Correct Answer
B. The clients with indwelling portals of entry, such as Hickman catheters
Explanation
The clients with indwelling portals of entry, such as Hickman catheters, should be the focus of infection control because these individuals have a higher risk of developing nosocomial infections. Indwelling catheters provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the body, increasing the chances of infection. Therefore, it is essential for nurses to prioritize infection control measures, such as proper catheter care and sterile techniques, to decrease the rate of nosocomial infections in this population.
17.
Which of the following is a major ethical and legal issue for all community/public health care professionals?
Correct Answer
B. Balancing individual autonomy against community protection
Explanation
Balancing individual autonomy against community protection is a major ethical and legal issue for all community/public healthcare professionals. This refers to the challenge of respecting an individual's right to make their own healthcare decisions while also considering the potential impact on the larger community. Healthcare professionals must navigate this delicate balance by ensuring that individuals have the autonomy to make choices about their own care, while also considering the potential harm or risk to the community. This issue raises questions about informed consent, public health interventions, and the responsibility of healthcare professionals to protect the well-being of both individuals and the community as a whole.
18.
A community/public health nurse is beginning an investigation of a communicable disease. What is the first action that the nurse will take?
Correct Answer
C. Identify the disease, isolate the causative agent, and determine the method of transmission.
Explanation
The first action that a community/public health nurse will take when beginning an investigation of a communicable disease is to identify the disease, isolate the causative agent, and determine the method of transmission. This is crucial in order to understand the nature of the disease, how it spreads, and how to effectively control and prevent its further transmission. Diagnosing the disease, asking patients to name contacts, and finding those contacts may be part of the investigation process, but it is not the first action that the nurse will take. Treating the problem and interviewing the client are also important steps, but they come after the initial identification and isolation of the disease. Using the media to share information and obtaining names of infected persons may be part of the public health response, but it is not the first action in the investigation process.
19.
Which of the following definitions of pathogenicity is accurate?
Correct Answer
B. How invasive and virulent the organism is
Explanation
The accurate definition of pathogenicity is how invasive and virulent the organism is. Pathogenicity refers to the ability of an organism to cause disease in a host. The more invasive and virulent the organism is, the more likely it is to cause illness in the host. This definition focuses on the characteristics of the organism itself, rather than factors such as mutation, agent presence, or host specificity.
20.
Which of the following is an example of indirect transmission?
Correct Answer
B. The biologist decided to set up his living quarters in one of the dusty caves, which he first swept out.
Explanation
The correct answer is "The biologist decided to set up his living quarters in one of the dusty caves, which he first swept out." This is an example of indirect transmission because the biologist is potentially exposing himself to any pathogens or contaminants that may be present in the dusty cave. By sweeping out the cave, he is taking precautions to reduce the risk of transmission, but there is still a possibility of indirect transmission through contact with the dust or other environmental factors.
21.
Which of the following situations represents an accurate example of passive immunity?
Correct Answer
D. The newborn who had not yet received any immunizations
Explanation
Passive immunity refers to the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from one individual to another. In this case, the newborn who has not received any immunizations yet represents an accurate example of passive immunity. The newborn relies on the antibodies passed from the mother through the placenta or breast milk for protection against diseases. These antibodies provide temporary immunity until the newborn's immune system develops its own antibodies.
22.
For the past 3 months, the nurse has been exchanging new needles for used needles at a homeless shelter frequented by drug users. How might the nurse know whether his or her time and effort were effective?
Correct Answer
B. The local health department reported a downward trend in newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
Explanation
The nurse would know whether his or her time and effort were effective based on the local health department reporting a downward trend in newly diagnosed HIV infections. This indicates that the needle exchange program has been successful in reducing the spread of HIV among the drug users at the homeless shelter. The decrease in newly diagnosed infections suggests that the exchange of new needles for used needles has been effective in preventing the transmission of the virus.
23.
Who is responsible for providing immunizations and direct care services?
Correct Answer
C. The local health department
Explanation
The local health department is responsible for providing immunizations and direct care services. They are the primary agency at the local level that handles public health matters, including immunizations and direct care services. They work closely with the state health department and other organizations to ensure that the community's health needs are met. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention play a broader role in setting guidelines and providing support, but it is the local health department that directly delivers these services to the community.
24.
Which of the following examples best represents effective primary prevention?
Correct Answer
D. Immunization according to the recommended schedule
Explanation
Immunization according to the recommended schedule is the best example of effective primary prevention. Immunization helps prevent the occurrence of infectious diseases by providing immunity against them. Following the recommended schedule ensures that individuals receive the necessary vaccines at the appropriate times, maximizing their protection. This proactive approach targets the root cause of the diseases and reduces the likelihood of transmission, making it an effective primary prevention strategy.
25.
An elderly man saw a flyer about a free influenza immunization clinic at the senior citizens center. Which of the following would be his best choice of action?
Correct Answer
B. Bringing his elderly wife and both receive the influenza immunization
Explanation
The best choice of action for the elderly man would be to bring his elderly wife and both receive the influenza immunization. This is because getting vaccinated is the most effective way to prevent influenza, especially for older adults who are more vulnerable to serious complications from the virus. Additionally, even if they received a vaccine last year, it is still recommended to get vaccinated annually as the strains of the virus can change each year.
26.
Which of the following persons is probably most at risk for an infectious disease?
Correct Answer
A. A member of the janitorial staff who cleans floors and equipment in the hospital
Explanation
A member of the janitorial staff who cleans floors and equipment in the hospital is probably most at risk for an infectious disease because they are regularly exposed to potentially contaminated surfaces and equipment in a healthcare setting. They may come into contact with bodily fluids or other infectious materials while performing their cleaning duties, increasing their risk of infection compared to the other individuals mentioned.
27.
A nurse had just accepted a position but was required to complete some laboratory tests before actually beginning employment. Which of the following test results might be controversial?
Correct Answer
B. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test
Explanation
The Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test might be controversial because it involves testing for a virus that is associated with stigma and discrimination. Some individuals may have concerns about their privacy and fear the potential consequences of a positive result, such as discrimination in the workplace or social ostracization. Additionally, there may be legal and ethical considerations surrounding the disclosure of HIV status. Therefore, the HIV test result is likely to be controversial compared to the other tests mentioned.
28.
A young man had a test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) performed on an anonymous basis. When he tried to determine the results of the test, he was asked to come in to the public health department to get the results. Which of the following assumptions is correct?
Correct Answer
D. The staff want to counsel him on safer sex practices regardless of the test results.
Explanation
The correct assumption is that the staff want to counsel him on safer sex practices regardless of the test results. This can be inferred from the fact that the young man is asked to come in to the public health department to get the results, indicating that the staff want to have a conversation with him. The assumption of the test being inconclusive or the result being negative or positive is not supported by the information given.
29.
A nurse is preparing a health presentation for a local daycare facility about preventing the spread of illness. Which of the following is the most important intervention to include?
Correct Answer
C. Performing frequent hand-washing with soap and water, especially before eating or touching the face
Explanation
Performing frequent hand-washing with soap and water, especially before eating or touching the face, is the most important intervention to include in the health presentation for preventing the spread of illness. Hand-washing is a simple and effective way to remove germs and prevent the transmission of infectious diseases. It helps to reduce the risk of getting sick and spreading illnesses to others. Washing hands before eating or touching the face is particularly important as it prevents the entry of germs into the body through the mouth, nose, and eyes.