Community Health Nursing Practice Exam

What is the final step that a community health nurse would take when implementing an epidemiologic research study?

1. Analyze the data

2. Design the study

3. Disseminate findings

4. Review the literature

The correct answer is: Disseminate findings

The final step in implementing an epidemiologic research study is to disseminate findings. This step is critical because it involves sharing the results of the research with stakeholders, such as healthcare providers, policy makers, and the community at large. Disseminating findings ensures that the knowledge gained from the research can be applied to improve public health, inform policy decisions, and guide future research. By effectively communicating results through publications, presentations, or community forums, the nurse contributes to the body of knowledge in public health and enables the integration of the findings into practice. This step not only fosters awareness and understanding of the study’s implications but also encourages collaboration among various stakeholders to address health issues identified during the research. The other steps, such as analyzing the data, designing the study, and reviewing the literature, are important components of the overall research process but occur prior to sharing the findings with the broader community. Therefore, dissemination is seen as the culmination of the research effort, ensuring that the work has a practical impact.