A public health nurse is comparing mortality rates in their state to overall mortality rates in the U.S. Which of the following mortality rates should the nurse use for this comparison?

Choice A: Health Care Illiteracy
Health care illiteracy refers to a lack of understanding about health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. While this is an important issue, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The client's report of skipping meals indicates an urgent need for addressing food insecurity, which directly impacts their health and well-being.

Choice B: Food Access
This is the correct choice. Food access is a critical issue because it directly affects the client's nutritional status and overall health. Skipping meals due to financial constraints can lead to malnutrition, weakened immune function, and delayed recovery from cellulitis. Ensuring the client has access to adequate and nutritious food is essential for their immediate health needs and recovery.

Choice C: Economic Stability
Economic stability is important for long-term health and well-being, but it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario. Addressing food access will have a more direct and immediate impact on the client's health. Once the client's nutritional needs are met, the nurse can then work on connecting the client with resources to improve their economic stability.

Choice D: Quality of Education
Quality of education is a significant factor in overall health and socioeconomic status, but it is not the immediate priority in this case. The client's immediate health needs, particularly their access to food, should be addressed first. Education can be part of a longer-term plan to improve the client's economic stability and health literacy.

Choice A reason: Studies show a minimal increase in confidence levels among mentored youth
While mentorship can have various benefits, the statement that it shows only a minimal increase in confidence levels is not entirely accurate. Research indicates that mentorship programs can significantly boost self-esteem and self-confidence among youth. However, this choice does not directly address the primary rationale for referring a disruptive student to a mentorship program.

Choice B reason: Students who are mentored are more likely to attain educational success
This statement is supported by extensive research. Mentorship programs have been shown to improve academic performance, increase high school graduation rates, and enhance overall educational aspirations. Mentored students often receive guidance, support, and motivation that help them succeed academically. This rationale aligns well with the goal of addressing disruptive behavior in school by providing positive role models and support systems.

Choice C reason: Mentored teens tend to recover better from bullying experiences
Mentorship can indeed help teens recover from bullying by providing emotional support and guidance. Mentors can offer a safe space for mentees to discuss their experiences and develop coping strategies. However, while this is a valid benefit of mentorship, it is not the primary rationale for referring a disruptive student to a mentorship program.

Choice D reason: Mentorship will help the child avoid social activities during the teen years
This statement is incorrect. Mentorship programs aim to encourage positive social interactions and engagement in constructive activities. They do not seek to isolate children from social activities but rather to guide them towards healthier and more productive social engagements. Therefore, this rationale does not support the referral for mentorship.