A public health nurse is participating in a research study to determine how virulent a new virus is. Which of the following mortality measures should the nurse use to calculate this data?
Cause-specific mortality rate
Age-specific mortality rate*
Proportionate mortality
Case fatality
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
The cause-specific mortality rate measures the number of deaths attributed to a specific cause within a population during a given time period. While this measure is useful for understanding the impact of a particular disease on a population, it does not directly indicate the virulence of a virus. Virulence refers to the severity or harmfulness of a disease, which is better captured by the case fatality rate.
Choice B Reason:
The age-specific mortality rate calculates the number of deaths within specific age groups in a population. This measure helps identify age-related mortality trends but does not provide information about the virulence of a virus. Age-specific mortality rates are more useful for understanding the impact of diseases across different age demographics rather than assessing the severity of a new virus.
Choice C Reason:
Proportionate mortality refers to the proportion of deaths in a population attributable to a specific cause relative to all deaths. This measure helps in understanding the relative importance of different causes of death but does not directly measure the virulence of a virus. Proportionate mortality is more about the distribution of causes of death rather than the severity of a particular disease.
Choice D Reason:
Case fatality rate (CFR) is the most appropriate measure for determining the virulence of a new virus. CFR is calculated by dividing the number of deaths caused by the disease by the number of diagnosed cases of the disease, then multiplying by 100 to get a percentage. This measure directly indicates the lethality of the virus by showing the proportion of diagnosed cases that result in death. It is a critical indicator for assessing the severity and potential impact of a new infectious disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Crime Statistics
Crime statistics are an example of secondary data. Secondary data refers to information that has been collected by someone else for a different purpose but is being utilized by the nurse for community assessment. Crime statistics are typically gathered by law enforcement agencies and other governmental bodies and can provide valuable insights into the safety and social environment of a community.
Choice B: Direct Observation
Direct observation is a method of collecting primary data. Primary data is gathered firsthand by the researcher through direct methods such as surveys, interviews, or observations. In this case, the nurse would be directly observing the community to gather information, making it a primary data collection method.
Choice C: Community Informant Interviews
Community informant interviews are another example of primary data collection. These interviews involve speaking directly with community members or key informants to gather firsthand information about the community's health needs, resources, and concerns. This method provides qualitative data that can be used to understand the community's perspective.
Choice D: Windshield Survey
A windshield survey is a primary data collection method where the nurse drives through the community to observe various aspects such as housing conditions, availability of services, and general environmental conditions. This type of survey provides firsthand observational data about the community.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Teaching residents about the dangers of lead-based paint is an important public health intervention, especially in older neighborhoods where lead paint may still be present. However, this intervention does not directly address the mobility and transportation issues faced by elderly residents with health problems. It is more relevant to preventing lead poisoning and ensuring safe living environments.
Choice B Reason:
Partnering with local churches and writing grants for childcare funding towards affordable daycares is a valuable community initiative. It supports working families by providing affordable childcare options. However, this intervention does not directly benefit elderly residents with health issues who have trouble getting around. It is more focused on supporting young families rather than addressing the specific needs of the elderly.
Choice C Reason:
Advocating for more transportation to healthcare facilities directly addresses the mobility challenges faced by elderly residents with health issues. Improved transportation options can significantly enhance their access to medical care, ensuring they receive timely treatments and check-ups. This intervention is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being, making it the most relevant and impactful choice for this scenario.
Choice D Reason:
Partnering with a nonprofit organization for the local farmers' market to sell fresh produce twice a week is an excellent initiative to improve access to healthy foods. While this can benefit the elderly by providing easier access to nutritious food, it does not directly address their transportation and mobility issues. It is a supportive measure but not the primary solution for their immediate needs.
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