The charge nurse notes that two patients had communicable infectious diseases and were treated appropriately. Which action should be taken next by the nurse?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Because state health departments have the responsibility for monitoring and controlling communicable diseases within their respective states, they determine which diseases will be reported within their jurisdiction. Because the state health department requirements will dictate what action is taken next, it may not be necessary to report the cases to the CDC, regional health department, or to the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Prospective studies monitor a group of individuals to determine if and when disease occurs. A cross-sectional study examines relationships between potential causal factors and disease at a specific time. A retrospective study compares individuals with a particular condition or disease with those who do not have the disease. A true experiment involves both an experimental group who receives an intervention and a control group who does not receive an intervention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In epidemiology, 'exposure' is any factor (e.g., smoking, diet, BMI) that may influence health, positively or negatively (A), making it true. B assumes all exposures increase risk, which isn’t always true (e.g., exercise reduces risk). C is false; dietary intake is an exposure despite being a choice. D is false; BMI is a single exposure linked to multiple outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Epidemiological studies include descriptive (A), observational (B), and interventional (C) types. Qualitative study (D) is a social science method, not typically epidemiological.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cohort studies (B) follow groups over time to track disease development (e.g., Framingham Study). A is snapshot, C is retrospective, D is experimental.