The facility education nurse is providing a group of new nurses education regarding weaponized biological threats. When discussing anthrax, which of the following should be included as portals of entry? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

Choice A reason: Mitigation is not the correct level of the National Response Framework, as it refers to the actions taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from natural or man-made hazards. Mitigation activities include implementing building codes, zoning ordinances, land use planning, and flood insurance programs. Mitigation is a continuous process that occurs before, during, and after a disaster.

Choice B reason: Security is not the correct level of the National Response Framework, as it refers to the actions taken to protect the nation from threats or attacks by terrorists, criminals, or hostile states. Security activities include conducting intelligence operations, screening travelers and cargo, enforcing laws and regulations, and preventing cyberattacks. Security is a shared responsibility among federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector partners.

Choice C reason: Preparedness is the correct level of the National Response Framework, as it refers to the actions taken to plan, organize, equip, train, and exercise to build and sustain the capabilities necessary to prevent, protect against, mitigate the effects of, respond to, and recover from those threats that pose the greatest risk. Preparedness activities include developing emergency plans, conducting drills and exercises, educating the public, and establishing partnerships and coordination mechanisms. Preparedness is a continuous cycle of improvement that involves assessing needs, setting goals, implementing plans, and evaluating outcomes.

Choice D reason: The response phase is not the correct level of the National Response Framework, as it refers to the actions taken to save lives, protect property and the environment, stabilize the situation, and meet basic human needs in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. Response activities include activating emergency operations centers, deploying resources and personnel, providing mass care and sheltering, restoring critical infrastructure and services, and conducting search and rescue operations. Response is a short-term process that aims to restore normalcy as soon as possible.

Choice A reason: The integumentary system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can enter through cuts or abrasions on the skin. This is called cutaneous anthrax, and it is the most common and least deadly form of anthrax infection.

Choice B reason: The endocrine system is not a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria do not affect the glands or hormones of the body. The endocrine system is mainly involved in regulating metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction.

Choice C reason: The central nervous system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can spread to the brain and spinal cord from other parts of the body. This is called meningeal anthrax, and it is a rare and fatal complication of anthrax infection.

Choice D reason: The renal system is not a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria do not infect the kidneys or urinary tract. The renal system is mainly involved in filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood.

Choice E reason: The respiratory system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs. This is called inhalation anthrax, and it is the most deadly form of anthrax infection.