A forensic nurse is using the epidemiological triangle to explain factors that contribute to violent behavior. Which of the following factors should the nurse identify as an environmental factor in the epidemiological triangle?
Crowded living conditions
Traumatic brain injury
Alzheimer's disease
Impaired coping abilities
The Correct Answer is A
A. Crowded living conditions: The epidemiological triangle consists of the agent, host, and environment. Environmental factors include external conditions that influence the likelihood of violence, such as overcrowding, lack of resources, and social instability. High-density living situations can increase stress levels, competition for basic needs, and exposure to conflict, all of which may contribute to violent behavior.
B. Traumatic brain injury: This is a host factor, as it directly affects an individual’s neurological function, potentially contributing to aggressive behavior. Damage to specific brain regions, such as the frontal lobe, can impair impulse control and increase the risk of violent actions, but it does not originate from the external environment.
C. Alzheimer's disease: As a condition affecting the individual, this is also a host factor. Cognitive decline may increase impulsivity or aggression, particularly in later stages, as judgment and emotional regulation deteriorate. However, the disease itself is an internal factor and not an external environmental influence.
D. Impaired coping abilities: This is a host factor because it pertains to an individual's psychological and emotional regulation, affecting how they respond to stress or conflict. Poor coping mechanisms can increase vulnerability to engaging in violent behavior, but they arise from personal experiences and mental health conditions rather than external environmental influences.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Provide the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with the client's information": While listeriosis is a nationally notifiable disease, reporting is first done at the state level, which then decides how to proceed with federal notification. Directly sending client information to the CDC is not the nurse’s role.
B. "Inform the client that they are required to have health department staff directly observe their treatment": Directly observed therapy (DOT) is typically used for diseases like tuberculosis, where adherence to a medication regimen is critical. Listeriosis treatment does not require such supervision.
C. "Determine whether the condition is reportable under state requirements": Listeriosis is a reportable disease in most states, but reporting guidelines vary. The nurse must follow state-specific regulations to ensure proper public health response and disease surveillance.
D. "Find out whether the condition is endemic in the client's neighborhood": Listeriosis is typically linked to foodborne outbreaks rather than geographic endemics. Identifying contaminated food sources is more relevant than determining neighborhood endemicity.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Do you spend more time thinking about the past, present, or future?": This question focuses on the client's perspective of time rather than their beliefs about environmental control. While it may provide insight into the client's worldview, it does not directly address how they perceive their ability to influence their health or environment.
B. "Who makes most of the decisions in your family group?": This question may provide some understanding of family dynamics and authority but does not directly assess the client's beliefs regarding their control over their health or environment. It may highlight cultural aspects but lacks a direct connection to environmental control beliefs.
C. "What do you think you can do to affect your health status?": This question directly addresses the client's beliefs about their ability to exert control over their health and environment. It encourages the client to reflect on their agency and the actions they believe they can take to influence their well-being, making it the most relevant choice for assessing environmental control.
D. "Can you list any diseases that your parents or siblings have had?": While understanding the family medical history is important, this question focuses on genetics and familial health rather than the client’s beliefs about their ability to control their environment or health. It does not provide insight into how the client views their role in managing their health.
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