The occupational heal th nurse is completing a yearly sel f-evaluation. Which activity shoul d the nurse document as an example of profi cient performance criteria i n professionalism?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D is the most appropriate choice as an example of proficient performance criteria in professionalism for an occupational health nurse's self-evaluation. Developing policy initiatives that impact occupational health and safety demonstrates a high level of professionalism as it involves critical thinking, leadership, and advocacy for the well-being of workers. Option A, contributing money to a professional society, though commendable, does not directly reflect the nurse's professional competence in their role. Option B, maintaining chairmanship of a nursing council, is more related to leadership skills than professionalism specifically. Option C, documenting the nursing process in care management, is important but does not specifically address professionalism criteria in the context of occupational health nursing. Educationally, understanding the significance of policy development in occupational health and safety is crucial for nurses in this specialty. It not only enhances their professional growth but also contributes to creating safer work environments and promoting health outcomes for workers. Professionalism in nursing goes beyond routine tasks and encompasses actions that advance the profession and prioritize patient and worker well-being.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) return to the emergency room if flu-like symptoms develop within 42 days. This instruction is crucial because inhalation anthrax symptoms can mimic those of the flu initially, and early detection and treatment are key to a better prognosis. By advising the client to seek medical attention promptly if flu-like symptoms develop, the nurse is ensuring timely evaluation and appropriate management. Option B) notify co-workers to get the anthrax vaccine at the public health department is incorrect because there is no vaccine available for anthrax exposure. Anthrax vaccine is only recommended for prevention, not for post-exposure treatment. Option C) isolation from friends and family members is recommended for 3 weeks is incorrect as it is not necessary for inhalation anthrax. Anthrax is not transmitted person-to-person, so isolation is not required. Option D) cleanse all surfaces touched with pre-moistened anti-bacterial wipes is incorrect because anthrax is primarily spread through inhalation of spores, not through surface contact. While general hygiene practices are important, they are not the primary focus in managing inhalation anthrax exposure. In an educational context, understanding the specific instructions for managing anthrax exposure is vital for healthcare professionals working in community health settings. Providing accurate information and clear instructions to clients in such situations can significantly impact their outcomes and overall well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct priority nursing action is to refer the adolescent for prenatal care (Option B). This choice is the most critical as it ensures the health and well-being of both the adolescent and her unborn child. Referring her for prenatal care is essential because it will provide the necessary medical attention, monitoring, and support throughout her pregnancy. Early prenatal care can help detect and address any potential complications, provide education on healthy behaviors, and ensure proper development of the fetus. The other options are not the priority in this situation: A) Notifying her parents may be important for support and involvement, but the immediate need is for prenatal care to ensure the health of both the adolescent and the baby. C) Teaching breastfeeding methods and D) offering nutritional instructions are important aspects of prenatal care but are secondary to ensuring she receives medical care promptly. In an educational context, understanding the hierarchy of nursing actions based on priority is crucial. This scenario highlights the significance of timely and appropriate interventions in promoting positive health outcomes for both the adolescent and her unborn child. It emphasizes the critical role of the nurse in advocating for and facilitating access to essential healthcare services.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of developing a presentation on injury prevention for high school students in a health education class, the most important topic for the nurse to include is seat belt safety (Option C). This is because motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury and death among teenagers. By emphasizing the importance of seat belt use, the nurse can directly address a key risk factor for serious injuries in this age group. Sports-related injuries (Option A) are important to address, but they are more specific and may not apply to all students. Substance abuse (Option B) and pregnancy prevention (Option D) are also significant topics, but they do not directly pertain to injury prevention through seat belt safety, which is crucial for all high school students regardless of their personal situations. Educationally, focusing on seat belt safety provides a practical and universal message that can help students make safer choices every time they get in a vehicle. By highlighting this topic, the nurse can contribute to reducing the risk of serious injuries and fatalities among high school students, making a direct impact on their well-being and promoting lifelong safety habits.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, option C, administering influenza vaccines to residents of a nursing home, is an example of a secondary level of prevention. Secondary prevention aims to detect and treat health conditions early to prevent their progression and complications. Administering vaccines helps prevent the spread of influenza among vulnerable populations, reducing the risk of severe illness and complications. Option A, providing a needle exchange program, falls under primary prevention as it aims to prevent the initial occurrence of disease by reducing risk factors such as needle sharing among intravenous drug users. Option B, developing an educational program for clients with diabetes mellitus, is more aligned with tertiary prevention, which focuses on managing and reducing the impact of existing conditions to prevent further complications. Option D, initiating contact notifications for sexual partners of an HIV client, is a form of disease control and partner notification, falling under the realm of primary prevention by aiming to prevent the spread of HIV to others. Understanding the levels of prevention is crucial for community health nurses as it helps in planning and implementing appropriate interventions to promote health and prevent disease within the community.