A nurse is caring for a client who questions the need for cardiac rehabilitation, stating, “My heart is permanently damaged from the heart attack, so what’s the point of cardiac rehabilitation?” Which response should the nurse prioritize?

Choice A reason:

Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, can be exacerbated by air pollutants, including ozone. However, individuals with asthma are more severely affected by ozone exposure. Ozone can trigger asthma attacks and worsen symptoms, making it a more critical concern for those with asthma.

Choice B reason:

Mitral valve disease affects the heart’s mitral valve and can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. While air pollution can impact cardiovascular health, ozone specifically poses a greater risk to individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma rather than those with mitral valve disease.

Choice C reason:

Nasal polyps are noncancerous growths in the nasal passages or sinuses that can cause breathing difficulties and chronic sinus infections. Although air pollutants can irritate the nasal passages, individuals with asthma are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of ozone, which can exacerbate their respiratory symptoms.

Choice D reason:

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. Ozone exposure can significantly worsen asthma symptoms, trigger asthma attacks, and reduce lung function. Therefore, individuals with asthma are especially vulnerable to the effects of ozone.

Choice A reason:

Organizing an influenza immunization campaign is an example of primary prevention, which aims to prevent the onset of illness or injury before it occurs. Secondary prevention focuses on early detection and intervention to prevent the progression of disease or injury.

Choice B reason:

Helping plant workers identify signs of carpal tunnel syndrome is a secondary prevention strategy. It involves early detection of symptoms and providing education on how to manage and seek treatment for the condition. Early intervention can prevent the progression of carpal tunnel syndrome and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Choice C reason:

Teaching plant workers about proper lifting techniques is an example of primary prevention. It aims to prevent injuries by educating workers on safe practices. While important, it does not fall under secondary prevention, which focuses on early detection and intervention.

Choice D reason:

Collaborating with a physical therapist to develop programs for injured employees to return to work is an example of tertiary prevention. Tertiary prevention focuses on rehabilitation and managing long-term health conditions to improve quality of life and prevent further complications.