A nurse has developed a six-month program to address the increased incidence of hospital-acquired infections among clients in a long-term care facility.
The program includes three mandatory classes on proper handwashing techniques and increases the availability of hand cleansers in the facility.
Which measure provides the best indication of the program’s effectiveness?

The correct answer is B. Perceived susceptibility.

Explanation:

The Health Belief Model (HBM) explains health-related behaviors based on an individual's perceptions. Perceived susceptibility refers to a person's belief about their risk of developing a disease. In this case, the client believes they are not susceptible to the flu, which influences their decision not to get vaccinated.

Why the other options are incorrect:

• A. Perceived barriers – This refers to obstacles preventing someone from taking action, such as cost or fear of side effects. The client did not mention barriers, only their belief that they don’t get the flu.

• C. Perceived severity – This relates to how serious a person believes a condition is. The client did not indicate concern about how severe the flu might be, only that they don’t expect to get it.

• D. Perceived benefits – This focuses on a person’s belief in the effectiveness of an action. The client’s response does not express doubts about the vaccine’s benefits, just their belief that flu prevention is unnecessary for them.

Answer and explanation The correct answer is D. Choice A rationale

While informing citizens about the importance of immunization is a good step, it may not be the most effective initial action. It’s important to first understand the extent of the problem and the specific areas where immunization rates are low.

Choice B rationale

Partnering with a local hospital to set up free immunization clinics is a great initiative. However, without first understanding the specific areas of low immunization and the reasons behind it, this effort might not be targeted effectively.

Choice C rationale

Joining a political action group could help bring attention to the issue, but it might not directly address the problem. The nurse first needs to understand the current situation and the areas of the city where the immunization rates are particularly low.

Choice D rationale

Reviewing current epidemiological population data would provide the nurse with a clear picture of the immunization rates in different sections of the city. This should be the initial step as it would guide subsequent actions, such as setting up immunization clinics in areas where they are most needed.