[community Public Health] Chapter 9: Environmental Health Risk
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Which of the following events marked the beginning of the most outstanding improvements in public health?
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Discovery of antibiotics
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Creation of safe water purification and sewer systems
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Implementation of surgery as a clean procedure in the operating rooms
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Physician education on the benefits of hand-washing between procedures
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This quiz in [Community Public Health] Chapter 9: Environmental Health Risk covers key aspects like water purification, environmental justice, and exposure assessments. It tests understanding of ecological models, public health improvements, and secondary prevention strategies in polluted areas.
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- 2.
To what does the term environmental justice refer?
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Applying environmental laws equally throughout the country
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Being fair (or just) in relation to how the costs of environmental pollution cleanup are distributed
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Putting the most environmental pollution waste in the already polluted sites (known as Superfund sites)
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Recognizing that environmental risks are disproportionately high for low-income and minority populations who live in more highly polluted neighborhoods
Correct Answer
A. Recognizing that environmental risks are disproportionately high for low-income and minority populations who live in more highly polluted neighborhoodsExplanation
Environmental justice refers to the recognition that environmental risks are disproportionately high for low-income and minority populations who live in more highly polluted neighborhoods. It acknowledges the unequal distribution of environmental hazards and aims to address the social and economic factors that contribute to this disparity. The concept of environmental justice seeks to ensure fair treatment and involvement of all communities in environmental decision-making and the equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Between what two aspects does the ecologic systems model distinguish?
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Ecologic disasters and lifestyle behavior problems
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Housing and school or employment hazards
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The immediate environment and the broader environment
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The United States and the rest of the world
Correct Answer
A. The immediate environment and the broader environmentExplanation
The ecologic systems model distinguishes between the immediate environment and the broader environment. The immediate environment refers to the immediate surroundings and influences on an individual, such as family, friends, and neighborhood. The broader environment, on the other hand, encompasses larger societal factors, such as culture, socioeconomic status, and government policies. This model recognizes that individuals are influenced by both their immediate surroundings and the broader societal context in which they live.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What, in basic terms, do Barry Commoners laws of ecology state?
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Everything is connected to everything else, and everything must go somewhere.
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Long-term survival requires protection of our environment.
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Only humans contaminate their own environment.
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Take care of the planet; its the only one we've got.
Correct Answer
A. Everything is connected to everything else, and everything must go somewhere.Explanation
Barry Commoner's laws of ecology state that everything in the environment is interconnected and interdependent. This means that any action or change in one part of the ecosystem can have ripple effects on other parts. Additionally, Commoner emphasizes that nothing in the environment simply disappears, but rather everything must go somewhere, whether it is through recycling, decomposition, or other processes. These laws highlight the importance of understanding and protecting the environment for long-term survival and sustainability.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following information would the nurse document when conducting an exposure assessment with a client?
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The chemicals used at work or in hobbies
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The substances used to clean the house or keep the yard/garden beautiful
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The home, work site, and neighborhood
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The environmental and psychological stress that is encountered
Correct Answer
A. The home, work site, and neighborhoodExplanation
During an exposure assessment with a client, the nurse would document information about the client's home, work site, and neighborhood. This information is important to assess potential sources of exposure to harmful substances or environmental hazards. By documenting this information, the nurse can identify any potential risks to the client's health and develop appropriate interventions or recommendations to minimize or prevent exposure.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following is the most appropriate secondary prevention approach when a nurse is working in a community with known high lead levels?
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Educating parents about avoiding purchasing toys painted with lead-based paint
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Screening all minority children
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Educating parents about early signs of lead poisoning
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Screening all children who are living in poverty
Correct Answer
A. Screening all children who are living in povertyExplanation
Screening all children who are living in poverty is the most appropriate secondary prevention approach when a nurse is working in a community with known high lead levels. This is because children who are living in poverty are more likely to be exposed to lead due to factors such as older housing and lack of access to clean water. By screening all children in this population, the nurse can identify those who have been exposed to lead and provide early intervention and treatment to prevent further health complications. Educating parents about avoiding purchasing toys painted with lead-based paint or educating parents about early signs of lead poisoning are important primary prevention approaches, but they may not address the immediate needs of children who are already at risk due to their living conditions. Screening all minority children may not be the most appropriate approach as it may lead to unnecessary testing and potentially stigmatize a specific group.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A nurse learned that a client was taken to the hospital with carbon monoxide poisoning after neglecting to turn off the car parked in the garage. Which of the following would be the most appropriate intervention to suggest at the next nursing visit?
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Encourage the client to leave one window open a crack, so there is always a constant supply of fresh air from outside the home.
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Advise the client to install a carbon monoxide detector in the home.
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Suggest that the family move to a house with a detached garage.
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Teach the family the symptoms of breathing carbon monoxide gas so they can act quickly to get out of the house.
Correct Answer
A. Advise the client to install a carbon monoxide detector in the home.Explanation
Installing a carbon monoxide detector in the home is the most appropriate intervention to suggest because it will provide an early warning system for the presence of carbon monoxide gas. This will help the client and their family to take immediate action and evacuate the premises if necessary. It is a proactive measure that can prevent future instances of carbon monoxide poisoning and ensure the safety of the client and their household.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A nurse who had just undergone orientation for a staff position in the emergency department noticed a material safety data sheet attached to a solvent used to clean the skin around wounds. What is the purpose of this sheet?
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Hospitals are now attaching such documents for emergency department nurses, who are at high risk for trauma and injury from chemicals that patients use.
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It is part of the risk management program of hospitals that do not want to be sued by employees who misuse chemicals.
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It is required by federal law so that employees know the potential effects of the chemicals with which they are working.
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The sheet is the equivalent of a drug information sheet and should be given to patients who have their wounds cleaned with the solvent.
Correct Answer
A. It is required by federal law so that employees know the potential effects of the chemicals with which they are working.Explanation
The material safety data sheet is attached to the solvent used to clean the skin around wounds in order to comply with federal law. This sheet provides information about the potential effects of the chemicals used, allowing employees to be aware of any hazards or risks associated with their work. This helps ensure the safety of the employees and allows them to take necessary precautions while handling the chemicals.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following actions demonstrates the occupational health nurses need to balance conflict between what is legal and what is ethical?
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Ensuring the employers profit and keeping the employees happy
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Fulfilling what the nurses supervisor wants and what the employees want
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Encouraging primary prevention and first aid to the injured
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Reporting health problems to employers and keeping health records confidential
Correct Answer
A. Reporting health problems to employers and keeping health records confidentialExplanation
The correct answer is reporting health problems to employers and keeping health records confidential. Occupational health nurses have a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of employees while also maintaining their privacy and confidentiality. By reporting health problems to employers, nurses can address any potential hazards or risks in the workplace, promoting a safe working environment. At the same time, keeping health records confidential respects the employees' right to privacy and protects their personal information. Balancing the conflict between what is legal (reporting health problems) and what is ethical (keeping health records confidential) is crucial for occupational health nurses to fulfill their professional duties.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following activities is an ergonomist most likely to perform?
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Studying the prevention, detection, and treatment of work-related injuries
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Designing equipment for the interface of humans, their tools, and work activities
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Recognizing natural history of occupational disease and injuries in certain groups
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Describing the toxic properties of chemical agents used in the employment setting
Correct Answer
A. Designing equipment for the interface of humans, their tools, and work activitiesExplanation
An ergonomist is most likely to perform the activity of designing equipment for the interface of humans, their tools, and work activities. This is because ergonomics is the study of designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely. By designing equipment that is specifically tailored to fit the needs and capabilities of the users, an ergonomist can help improve comfort, productivity, and reduce the risk of work-related injuries.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following would be an appropriate response by a public health department if there is some evidence of a relationship between a substance and human health but research has not yet drawn conclusions?
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Be cautious.
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Do not worry about it.
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Contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Refuse to be involved.
Correct Answer
A. Be cautious.Explanation
If there is some evidence of a relationship between a substance and human health but research has not yet drawn conclusions, it would be appropriate for a public health department to advise people to be cautious. This response acknowledges the potential risks associated with the substance and encourages individuals to take preventive measures until more conclusive research is available. It promotes a proactive approach to ensure public safety and well-being.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Among other variables, upon what does damage from a specific chemical depend?
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The dose
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The environmental factors
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The toxicology
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The virulence and infectivity
Correct Answer
A. The doseExplanation
The damage from a specific chemical depends on the dose. This means that the severity of the damage caused by a chemical is directly related to the amount or concentration of the chemical that a person or organism is exposed to. Higher doses of a chemical are more likely to cause greater harm, while lower doses may have minimal or no adverse effects. Therefore, understanding the dose-response relationship is crucial in assessing the potential risks and determining the appropriate safety measures when dealing with chemicals.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following statements is the most accurate description of a client who has received a diagnosis of hypersensitivity?
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He or she gets his or her feelings hurt frequently.
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His or her skin burns very easily from sunlight.
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He or she reacts to much smaller doses of chemicals than do most people.
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He or she experiences an allergic reaction.
Correct Answer
A. He or she reacts to much smaller doses of chemicals than do most people.Explanation
A client who has received a diagnosis of hypersensitivity reacts to much smaller doses of chemicals than do most people. Hypersensitivity refers to an exaggerated response of the immune system to a substance that is normally harmless. This can manifest as an allergic reaction, where the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen or certain foods. The other options, such as getting feelings hurt frequently or having easily burned skin, do not accurately describe hypersensitivity.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What is one of the most prevalent and noxious pollutants in modern America?
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Noise
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Sewage in septic tanks
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Unsafe discarded medications
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Unsafe water
Correct Answer
A. NoiseExplanation
One of the most prevalent and noxious pollutants in modern America is noise. Noise pollution refers to excessive or disturbing noise that can have negative effects on human health and well-being. It is commonly found in urban areas, where traffic, construction, and industrial activities contribute to high levels of noise. Noise pollution can lead to sleep disturbances, stress, hearing loss, and other health issues. It can also disrupt communication, concentration, and overall quality of life. Therefore, noise is considered a significant pollutant in modern America.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Mr. Yuk educational campaign and the practice of routinely dispensing medications in childproof containers are examples of
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Primary prevention programs that have had little effect on poisoning deaths.
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Primary prevention programs that have notably decreased deaths from poisoning.
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Secondary prevention programs that have had little effect on poisoning deaths.
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Secondary prevention programs that have notably decreased deaths from poisoning.
Correct Answer
A. Primary prevention programs that have notably decreased deaths from poisoning.Explanation
The Mr. Yuk educational campaign and the practice of routinely dispensing medications in childproof containers are examples of primary prevention programs that have notably decreased deaths from poisoning. The Mr. Yuk campaign aims to educate children and parents about the dangers of ingesting harmful substances, while childproof containers help prevent accidental ingestion by making it difficult for children to access medications. These efforts are considered primary prevention because they target the general population and aim to prevent poisoning incidents before they occur. The fact that these programs have notably decreased deaths from poisoning suggests their effectiveness in reducing the risk of poisoning incidents.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A nurse wanted to increase the safety of a family with a small toddler. Which of the following would be a secondary prevention measure in relation to poisoning?
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Assessing for hazardous materials in the home and suggesting that these materials be kept in a locked cabinet over the refrigerator
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Encouraging the family to minimize the use of household chemicals and pesticides
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Encouraging the family to use household chemicals only when proper ventilation is available
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Printing stickers for the parents to attach to the phone with the telephone number of the nearest poison control center
Correct Answer
A. Assessing for hazardous materials in the home and suggesting that these materials be kept in a locked cabinet over the refrigeratorExplanation
Assessing for hazardous materials in the home and suggesting that these materials be kept in a locked cabinet over the refrigerator is a secondary prevention measure in relation to poisoning. This measure aims to prevent poisoning incidents by identifying and securing potentially harmful substances in the home. By keeping hazardous materials in a locked cabinet, the risk of accidental ingestion or exposure to the toddler is significantly reduced. This intervention focuses on reducing the potential harm and promoting the safety of the child, making it a secondary prevention measure.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following groups is most likely to experience an unintentional injury resulting from a fall?
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Adults who are always in a hurry, rushing from here to there
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Adults who are older than 65 years
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Toddlers who are just learning to walk
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Young children who run around without looking where they are going
Correct Answer
A. Adults who are older than 65 yearsExplanation
Adults who are older than 65 years are most likely to experience an unintentional injury resulting from a fall. As people age, their balance and coordination skills tend to decline, making them more susceptible to falls. Additionally, older adults may have weaker bones and muscles, which can increase the severity of injuries caused by falls. The risk of falls further increases due to factors such as vision problems, medication side effects, and chronic health conditions. Therefore, older adults are at a higher risk of unintentional injuries from falls compared to other age groups mentioned in the options.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A nurse was very concerned about an elderly client who took care of himself in his own apartment. On the basis of statistics, which behavior would cause the nurse to be most concerned about his safety?
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The man frequently went on long walks through the neighborhood.
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The man often ate at the all you can eat buffet, sometimes spending several hours there.
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The man often tripped over the rug in front of the sink.
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The man smoked from the time he got up until he went to bed.
Correct Answer
A. The man often tripped over the rug in front of the sink.Explanation
The nurse would be most concerned about the man frequently tripping over the rug in front of the sink. Tripping poses a significant safety risk, especially for an elderly individual who lives alone. Falls can lead to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma, which may have severe consequences for an elderly person's overall health and well-being. Additionally, repeated falls can indicate balance or mobility issues that may require further assessment and intervention to prevent future accidents.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A nurse assessed the home while visiting a home care client. What would be an appropriate primary intervention in relation to burns?
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Assessing the client for evidence of environmental hazards
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Encouraging the clients family to install a smoke detector
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Encouraging the whole family to practice stop, drop, and roll exercises
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Suggesting that the family purchase a first aid kit with first aid information
Correct Answer
A. Encouraging the clients family to install a smoke detectorExplanation
An appropriate primary intervention in relation to burns would be encouraging the client's family to install a smoke detector. This intervention is important because smoke detectors can help detect fires early on, allowing the family to take necessary actions to prevent burns and other injuries. By installing a smoke detector, the family can be alerted to potential fire hazards and take immediate steps to ensure their safety.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Why do European countries have less of a problem with regulating chemical toxicity than the United States?
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European countries can afford more chemical products to increase their life span and comfort.
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The United States is more technologically advanced, with more new chemicals to help with health care.
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The United States has more resources to purchase new chemical interventions for clinical problems.
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European countries require product manufacturers to prove that their products are safe.
Correct Answer
A. European countries require product manufacturers to prove that their products are safe.Explanation
European countries have less of a problem with regulating chemical toxicity than the United States because they have implemented stricter regulations that require product manufacturers to prove the safety of their products. This means that before any chemical products can be sold in European countries, they must undergo rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that they do not pose a risk to human health or the environment. This focus on safety and regulation helps to prevent the introduction of potentially harmful chemicals into the market, resulting in a lower problem with regulating chemical toxicity compared to the United States.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following actions represents primary prevention by the nurse who wishes to be a good community member?
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Encouraging limitation of activity when air pollution is high
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Obtaining occupational health histories for all new clinic admissions
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Screening toddlers attending the clinic for lead poisoning
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Supporting programs for waste reduction and recycling
Correct Answer
A. Supporting programs for waste reduction and recyclingExplanation
Supporting programs for waste reduction and recycling represents primary prevention because it aims to prevent the occurrence of health problems by addressing the root causes. By promoting waste reduction and recycling, the nurse is contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community by reducing environmental pollution and potential hazards. This action helps to prevent the development of various health issues that can arise from improper waste management, such as respiratory problems, water contamination, and exposure to toxic substances.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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May 06, 2020Quiz Created by
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