The public health RN is called to investigate a report of several cases of varicella at a day care center. The day care workers state that 5 children have been sent home over the past 2 weeks w/ fever & itchy blisters. Which intervention should the RN implement first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Validate that the children who were sent home had chickenpox. The first step in investigating a potential outbreak of a communicable disease like varicella (chickenpox) is to confirm the diagnosis. By validating that the children indeed had chickenpox, the RN can accurately assess the situation and take appropriate actions to prevent further spread. Choice B is incorrect because sending the child to their pediatrician should come after confirming the diagnosis to ensure proper medical care. Choice C is incorrect as it recommends a prolonged exclusion period without confirmation of the disease, which may not be necessary. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the seriousness of the situation and could lead to further spread of the illness if the children do have chickenpox.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because documentation of client education in the nursing record provides direct information on the implementation of the prevention education program. It helps evaluate whether the program was delivered as intended and if clients received the necessary education. Choice B, client's score on an alcohol screening instrument, is related to outcome evaluation rather than process evaluation. Choice C, results of a urine drug and alcohol screen, is also focused on outcomes rather than the process of education delivery. Choice D, most recent community census data, is not directly relevant to evaluating the process of the prevention education program for older adults.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Although a person might choose to do any of these, the most helpful action over the long term is to join a support group with persons having the same diagnosis for mutual learning, sharing of resources, and support. Religious leaders could also be helpful, but many people do not have a religious leader.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A major feature of a community is the relationships that community members form with one another. These functions provide socialization, role fulfillment, goal achievement, and member support. Not all communities are safe environments, have medical centers, or offer recreational opportunities.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Shoe leather epidemiology refers to establishing hypotheses about the community's health, strengths, and possible problems through the down-to-earth approach of traveling through the area, and observing and interacting with community members. Implementing the wheel model, engaging in truth seeking, and facilitating sharing of the community's history do not demonstrate the process of traveling through the community to absorb its overall impression.