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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Establish one group that can focus on a shared vision
Establishing a group that focuses on a shared vision is crucial for overcoming barriers in community health initiatives. A shared vision helps align the goals and efforts of all team members, fostering collaboration and unity. When everyone is working towards the same objectives, it becomes easier to address challenges and implement effective solutions. This approach ensures that all members are committed to the same outcomes, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the initiatives.
Choice B reason: Allow for the division into subgroups based on cultural similarities
While recognizing cultural similarities can be beneficial, dividing the team into subgroups based on these similarities may lead to fragmentation and reduce the overall cohesiveness of the group. It is important to promote inclusivity and ensure that diverse perspectives are integrated into the planning and implementation process. This approach helps in addressing the needs of the entire community rather than focusing on specific cultural groups.
Choice C reason: Encourage the creation of subgroups based on similar values
Encouraging the creation of subgroups based on similar values can also lead to fragmentation. While shared values are important, it is essential to maintain a unified team that can work together towards common goals. Creating subgroups may result in isolated efforts that do not fully address the broader community needs. A cohesive team with diverse values can provide a more comprehensive approach to community health initiatives.
Choice D reason: Ensure the group is limited to members with similar professional backgrounds
Limiting the group to members with similar professional backgrounds can hinder the effectiveness of community health initiatives. A diverse team with varied professional expertise can offer a broader range of perspectives and solutions. Including members from different backgrounds ensures that all aspects of community health are considered, leading to more innovative and effective interventions. Collaboration among professionals from different fields can enhance the overall impact of the initiatives.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Order a New Medication
Ordering a new medication is not typically the first step in the protocol for an employee injury. The nurse needs to assess the injury and determine the appropriate course of action based on the severity and nature of the injury. Medication may be part of the treatment plan, but it is not the initial step in the injury protocol.
Choice B: Initiate Safety and Audit Checks
Initiating safety and audit checks is an important part of workplace safety management, but it is not the immediate response to an employee injury. These checks are usually conducted to prevent future incidents and ensure compliance with safety regulations. The immediate priority is to address the employee's injury and provide necessary medical care.
Choice C: Perform a Drug Test
This is the correct choice. Performing a drug test is often part of the protocol following a workplace injury, especially in industries where safety is a critical concern. The drug test helps determine if substance use may have contributed to the accident. It is a standard procedure to ensure workplace safety and compliance with regulations.
Choice D: Vet the Injured Worker
Vetting the injured worker is not a standard part of the protocol for handling an employee injury. The focus should be on providing immediate medical care and assessing the injury. Vetting typically refers to a thorough examination or background check, which is not relevant in the context of responding to an injury.
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