On a day when the temperature is expected to drop to below freezing during the night, the nurse is asked to determine which homeless adults are most in need of the limited spaces that are available in a shelter. It is most important for which person to be admitted for the night?

(A) Pediculosis: Pediculosis, commonly known as head lice, is not typically classified as a reportable infectious disease. While it is a public health concern, it does not fall under the list of diseases required to be reported to health authorities by the CDC.

(B) Bacterial conjunctivitis: Bacterial conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is not generally considered a reportable infectious disease. Although it is infectious and can spread easily, it is not usually mandated for reporting to public health authorities.

(C) Anthrax: Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It is considered a reportable disease due to its potential for serious public health implications, including the possibility of bioterrorism.

(D) Diphtheria: Diphtheria is a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It is reportable because of its severity and the need for public health intervention to control outbreaks.

(E) Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is reportable due to its potential to cause widespread outbreaks and its significant public health implications, requiring ongoing monitoring and control measures.

A) Mortality rate in the community:
The mortality rate is an important indicator of overall health in a community and provides information about the number of deaths over a specific period. While it is useful for identifying trends and health outcomes, it does not capture the immediate and current health concerns or priorities of the community members.

B) Expressed needs of community members:
The expressed needs of community members are crucial for understanding the specific health concerns and priorities of the population. This information helps tailor interventions and programs to address the actual needs and preferences of the community, ensuring that the healthcare strategies implemented are relevant and effective.

C) Life expectancy of clients in the community:
Life expectancy is an important measure of general health and longevity in a community. However, it is a broader measure that does not provide specific insights into current health issues or immediate needs. Understanding life expectancy alone does not address the specific concerns or requirements of the community members.

D) Description of health problems by community leaders:
While descriptions of health problems by community leaders can provide valuable context and insight, they may not always reflect the full spectrum of the community’s health needs or the individual concerns of its members. Direct input from community members about their expressed needs offers a more comprehensive and relevant understanding of the health issues that require attention.