Community Health Nursing Practice Exam

What is an example of primary level prevention for communicable disease control?

1. Providing TB skin test to children entering kindergarten

2. Administering prompt treatment for symptoms of gonorrhea

3. Providing chest x-rays to people with positive TB skin tests

4. Conducting secondary screenings for TB patients

The correct answer is: Providing TB skin test to children entering kindergarten

Primary level prevention for communicable disease control focuses on the elimination or reduction of disease risk factors before the onset of disease. It aims to promote health and prevent diseases from occurring. In the context of communicable diseases, this can include activities designed to prevent the spread of pathogens and protect individuals and communities from infections. Providing a TB skin test to children entering kindergarten exemplifies primary prevention. This action is preventive in nature because it helps identify children who may be at risk for tuberculosis before symptoms appear, enabling health authorities to take further preventive actions if necessary, such as ensuring that children are vaccinated or treated if they are found to be infected. By screening children early, the likelihood of TB spreading in schools and communities can be significantly reduced, showcasing the essence of primary prevention. Other options relate more to secondary or tertiary prevention. Administering prompt treatment for symptoms of gonorrhea pertains to addressing an existing condition, thus falling into secondary prevention. Providing chest x-rays for those with positive TB skin tests and conducting secondary screenings for TB patients also pertain to identifying and managing existing health issues, moving beyond the primary prevention focus.