Which of the following statements indicate the importance of epidemiology to the community health nurse? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY.

Choice A reason:

Monitoring vital signs of postoperative clients is a task that can be safely delegated to an experienced LPN. LPNs are trained to monitor and report vital signs, which is a routine and essential part of postoperative care. This task does not require the advanced assessment skills of an RN, making it appropriate for delegation.

Choice B reason:

Administering routine medications to stable clients is within the scope of practice for LPNs. They are trained to administer medications and monitor clients for adverse reactions. As long as the clients are stable and the medications are routine, this task can be delegated to an LPN.

Choice C reason:

Performing wound care on a client with a Stage III pressure ulcer is a task that an experienced LPN can perform. LPNs are skilled in wound care and can manage complex dressings and treatments under the supervision of an RN. This delegation allows the RN to focus on more complex tasks that require their advanced skills.

Choice D reason:

Developing a teaching plan for a client newly diagnosed with Type II Diabetes is a task that should not be delegated to an LPN. This task requires comprehensive knowledge of diabetes management, patient education, and individualized care planning, which are within the RN’s scope of practice. The RN should develop the teaching plan and may involve the LPN in reinforcing the education.

Choice E reason:

Providing oral care to an unconscious client is a task that can be delegated to an experienced LPN. Oral care is essential for preventing infections and maintaining hygiene, and LPNs are trained to perform this care safely and effectively.

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.