After assessing the health care needs of an elementary school, the nurse determines that an increased prevalence of pediculosis capitis is a priority problem.
The nurse develops a 2-month program with the goal to eradicate the condition in the school.
The program includes educational pamphlets sent home to parents and regular assessment of children by the school nurse.
What action should the nurse implement to evaluate the effectiveness of the program?

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is C.

Choice A rationale

Patches of round lesions on both lower legs could be a sign of a skin condition such as ringworm. However, this condition is typically not urgent and can be treated with over-the- counter antifungal creams.

Choice B rationale

Red ring-shaped lesions with normal skin in the center could be a sign of ringworm. While this condition should be treated, it is not typically considered urgent.

Choice C rationale

Itchy, red, scaly patches with blisters that are draining could be a sign of a serious skin infection such as cellulitis. This condition can spread quickly and become serious if not treated promptly, so it should be prioritized for immediate intervention.

Choice D rationale

Several irritated circular bald, flaky scalp patches could be a sign of a scalp condition such as tinea capitis. While this condition should be treated, it is not typically considered urgent.

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice C.

Choice A rationale

While ensuring safe drinking water is important during a disaster, it may not be the most important content for a community health nurse to include in a disaster management class in a Gulf Coast town that caters to tourists.

Choice B rationale

Knowing available evacuation routes from the town is crucial during a disaster. However, in a Gulf Coast town that caters to tourists, the most significant threat is likely to be hurricanes.

Choice C rationale

Given the geographical location of the Gulf Coast town, hurricane preparedness for families and businesses is the most important content to include in the class. Hurricanes are a common natural disaster in this area, and being prepared can help reduce the impact of such events.

Choice D rationale

While it’s important to know what actions to take during a tornado, tornadoes are not as common as hurricanes in Gulf Coast towns. Therefore, hurricane preparedness would be more relevant to include in the class.