The school nurse is conducting an audit of incident reports for adolescent students.
Which finding is the best indication that the Healthy People 2030 objectives are being addressed?

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale

The number of requests for pregnancy testing being higher than last year does not necessarily indicate that the Healthy People 2030 objectives are being addressed. It could suggest an increase in sexual activity among the students, which could lead to an increase in sexually transmitted infections or unplanned pregnancies if not managed properly.

Choice B rationale

A decrease in the number of sick days could suggest an improvement in the overall health of the students. However, it does not provide a comprehensive picture of the health status of the students. Other factors, such as the number of students participating in physical education or the overall health of the student population, should also be considered.

Choice C rationale

An increase in the number of students participating in physical education could suggest an improvement in the physical health of the students. However, it does not provide a comprehensive picture of the health status of the students. Other factors, such as the number of sick days or the overall health of the student population, should also be considered.

Choice D rationale

An improvement in the overall health of the student population is the best indication that the Healthy People 2030 objectives are being addressed. The Healthy People 2030 objectives aim to improve health and well-being nationwide. Therefore, an improvement in the overall health of the student population suggests that these objectives are being met.

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is Choice B.

Choice A rationale

While surveying employees to determine how often hand cleansers are used during client care can provide some insight into the adherence to the program, it does not directly measure the effectiveness of the program in reducing hospital-acquired infections.

Choice B rationale

Comparing the incidence of infections before and after the program’s implementation is the most direct and reliable measure of the program’s effectiveness. A significant reduction in the

rate of hospital-acquired infections after the implementation of the program would indicate that the program is effective.

Choice C rationale

Observing a random sample of employees washing their hands three weeks after the program starts can provide information about the employees’ compliance with the handwashing techniques taught in the program. However, this measure does not directly indicate whether the program has been effective in reducing the incidence of hospital-acquired infections.

Choice D rationale

Using an experimental design to compare program participants with a control group could provide valuable data on the program’s effectiveness. However, this method might not be feasible or ethical in a healthcare setting, as it would involve deliberately withholding the program from the control group.