A nursing preceptor is reviewing life expectancy in the twentieth century with a new nurse. The nurse should recognize that which of the following was most responsible for the dramatic increase in life expectancy during the twentieth century.

Choice A reason: Epidemiology interprets legislation in the community is not a statement that indicates the importance of epidemiology to the community health nurse. Epidemiology is not directly involved in interpreting legislation, but rather in providing evidence and recommendations that can inform policy-making and law-making.

Choice B reason: Epidemiology relates to the health status of a population is a statement that indicates the importance of epidemiology to the community health nurse. Epidemiology is the study of how diseases and other health-related factors are distributed and determined in populations. It helps the community health nurse to identify and monitor health problems, trends, and disparities in different groups and areas.

Choice C reason: Epidemiology analyzes and examines the root causes of health outcomes is a statement that indicates the importance of epidemiology to the community health nurse. Epidemiology uses various methods and tools to investigate and explain the causes and consequences of diseases and other health-related events. It helps the community health nurse to understand and address the complex and multifactorial factors that influence health, such as biological, environmental, social, behavioral, and economic factors.

Choice D reason: Epidemiology evaluates the effectiveness of nursing interventions is a statement that indicates the importance of epidemiology to the community health nurse. Epidemiology applies scientific principles and rigorous designs to assess and compare the outcomes and impacts of different interventions and programs on health. It helps the community health nurse to plan, implement, and evaluate evidence-based practices and policies that can improve health and quality of life.

Choice E reason: Epidemiology defines the burden of disease and determinants of health is a statement that indicates the importance of epidemiology to the community health nurse. Epidemiology measures and compares the frequency, severity, and impact of diseases and other health-related conditions on populations. It helps the community health nurse to prioritize and allocate resources, as well as to advocate for health equity and social justice.

Choice A reason: Scheduling energy-intensive activities at the time of day when the client has higher energy levels is the best activity plan for conserving the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health, as it allows the client to perform the tasks that require more effort and endurance when they feel more alert and capable. This can help the client to avoid fatigue, frustration, and injury, and to achieve their goals more effectively. The nurse should assess the client's individual preferences and patterns of energy fluctuation, and help them to prioritize and plan their activities accordingly.

Choice B reason: Scheduling all activities within a small block of time to allow the client a longer, uninterrupted rest period is not a good activity plan for conserving the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health, as it may cause the client to overexert themselves and deplete their energy reserves. This can lead to exhaustion, pain, and stress, and impair the client's recovery and quality of life. The nurse should advise the client to balance their activities with adequate rest periods throughout the day and to avoid doing too much or too little at once.

Choice C reason: Scheduling toilet breaks before and after any other planned activity is not a good activity plan for conserving the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health, as it may not be realistic or feasible for some clients. Some clients may have urinary or bowel problems that require them to use the toilet more frequently or urgently, such as incontinence, infection, or constipation. Forcing them to follow a rigid schedule may cause them discomfort, embarrassment, or complications. The nurse should assess the client's elimination needs and habits, and help them to manage their toileting needs in a comfortable and convenient way.

Choice D reason: Scheduling the client's hygiene activities and limiting visitors is not a good activity plan for conserving the client's energy without compromising physical or mental health, as it may neglect the client's social and emotional needs. Hygiene activities are important for maintaining the client's physical health and well-being, but they can also be tiring and challenging for some clients. Limiting visitors may reduce the noise and stimulation in the environment, but it can also isolate the client from their family and friends who can provide support and companionship. The nurse should assist the client with their hygiene needs as needed, and encourage them to interact with their visitors as tolerated.