ATI RN
Public Health Foundations Questions
Question 1 of 5
According to NCD Risk Factor Collaboration studies published in 2016 (eLife 2016;5:e13410), among men born in 1996 the tallest are the Dutch, whose height on average is 182.5 cm, and the 95% level of confidence is 180.6-184.5 cm. The probability that the average height of the Dutch falls outside that level is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) 5%. This is because a 95% confidence interval indicates that there is a 5% chance that the true population mean falls outside the given range (2.5% on each tail of the distribution). In this case, the confidence interval for the average height of Dutch men born in 1996 is 180.6-184.5 cm, with the mean height being 182.5 cm. Therefore, there is a 5% probability that the average height of Dutch men born in 1996 does not fall within this range. Option A) 0% is incorrect because there is always a probability associated with confidence intervals, and a 95% confidence interval leaves a 5% chance of the true mean lying outside the range. Option B) 2.5% is incorrect because this represents only one tail of the distribution, whereas a 95% confidence interval covers both tails, with a total probability of 5%. Option D) 95% is incorrect as it represents the complementary probability to a 95% confidence interval, which is not the focus of the question. Understanding confidence intervals is crucial in public health research as it helps researchers make inferences about the population parameters based on sample data. It provides a range within which the true population parameter is likely to fall. This knowledge is essential for making informed decisions and policies based on research findings in public health.
Question 2 of 5
The most common causes of deaths in men are:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the realm of public health, understanding the leading causes of death in specific populations is crucial for developing effective interventions and promoting overall well-being. In the context of men's health, cardiovascular diseases stand out as the most common cause of mortality. This is primarily due to a combination of lifestyle factors, genetic predispositions, and societal influences that contribute to the development of conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. Option A, cardiovascular diseases, is the correct answer because statistics consistently show that men are more prone to developing heart-related conditions compared to other health issues. This is further exacerbated by risk factors such as smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and stress, all of which are prevalent in many men's lives. Option B, malignant tumors, while a significant cause of death overall, tend to affect men and women more equally in terms of mortality rates. Therefore, it is not the most common cause of death specifically in men. Option C, external factors, such as accidents and injuries, though important contributors to mortality, are generally not as common as chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases in the male population. Option D, carbon monoxide poisonings, is a specific and rare cause of death compared to the broad impact of cardiovascular diseases on men's health. Educationally, understanding the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in men serves as a foundation for promoting preventive measures like regular health screenings, lifestyle modifications, and early intervention strategies. By highlighting the significance of this health issue, educators can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards improving their cardiovascular health and overall quality of life.
Question 3 of 5
In one calendar year mortality due to malignant diseases was compared between the population of Town A (mortality: 420 / 100 000) and the population of Town B (mortality: 458 / 100 000). Indicate the correct interpretation of the obtained data:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because comparing crude mortality rates between populations with different age structures can lead to biased interpretations. Age standardization is essential to adjust for the varying age distributions in Town A and Town B, ensuring a fair comparison of mortality rates. Option A is incorrect as statistical significance cannot solely be determined based on a 5% difference. Option B is incorrect because mortality rates do not directly reflect disease incidence. Option C is incorrect as case fatality rates are not the focus of the comparison between Town A and Town B. This scenario highlights the importance of age-standardized rates in public health research to accurately assess health outcomes across different populations. Understanding these concepts is crucial for conducting valid epidemiological studies and informing evidence-based interventions in public health practice.
Question 4 of 5
In many countries, the key method of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019-2020 was the so-called flattening the epidemic curve that serves to: 1) reduce the overall number of cases; 2) spread the number of cases over time; 3) slow down the rate of spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection; 4) counteract the paralysis of treatment under the pressure of new cases; 5) gain time to develop treatment procedures and vaccines.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer, option D (2, 3, 4, 5), is the most comprehensive because flattening the epidemic curve during the COVID-19 pandemic served multiple purposes. Firstly, it aimed to spread the number of cases over time (2), which helps in preventing overwhelming healthcare systems. Secondly, it aimed to slow down the rate of spread of the SARS-CoV-2 infection (3), thereby reducing the burden on healthcare facilities and resources. Additionally, by slowing the spread, it helps counteract the paralysis of treatment under the pressure of new cases (4) and buys time to develop effective treatment procedures and vaccines (5). Options A, B, and C are incorrect for various reasons. Option A, which states only 1, is incorrect because flattening the curve is not solely about reducing the overall number of cases. Options B and C are also incorrect because they do not include all the key objectives of flattening the curve as mentioned earlier. In an educational context, understanding the concept of flattening the epidemic curve is crucial in public health. It not only helps in managing the current pandemic but also lays the foundation for dealing with future health crises effectively. By grasping the multifaceted goals of flattening the curve, students can appreciate the significance of public health interventions and the interconnectedness of various strategies in combating infectious diseases.
Question 5 of 5
In February 2019 the Supreme Administrative Court dismissed A.D.'s (plaintiff's initials) cassation appeal from the verdict of the Provincial Administrative Court in Warsaw which in 2016 supported the Health Minister's decision who in turn upheld the provincial governor's decision to impose a fine of 420 PLN on A.D. for avoiding subjecting his minor daughter to preventive vaccinations. The SAC's verdict is an example of the following law function in the field of public health:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) ban on actions and behaviors harmful to the health of individuals and the community. This is because the Supreme Administrative Court's verdict upholding the imposition of a fine on A.D. for avoiding vaccinating his minor daughter is a clear example of enforcing public health measures to prevent harm to both individuals and the community at large. Mandatory vaccinations are a crucial public health intervention to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect the population, especially vulnerable groups like children. Option B) regulation of the rights of individuals and groups to health care, is incorrect as the case does not pertain to access to healthcare services but rather to enforcing public health regulations for the greater good. Option C) regulation of health care resources, and Option D) regulation of healthcare financing, are also incorrect as they do not directly relate to the enforcement of public health measures such as mandatory vaccination. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of public health laws and regulations in promoting and protecting the health of the population. It underscores the balance between individual rights and the collective responsibility to safeguard public health through evidence-based interventions like mandatory vaccinations. Understanding the role of legal mechanisms in public health is essential for healthcare professionals and policymakers to effectively address public health challenges and promote well-being in society.