Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which of the following is a primary approach in reducing health risks?

1. Screening for early disease detection

2. Health education programs

3. Immunizations

4. Palliative care

The correct answer is: Immunizations

Immunizations are a primary approach in reducing health risks because they work by providing individuals with immunity against specific infectious diseases. This preventative measure helps to not only protect the vaccinated individual from illness but also contributes to community protection through herd immunity. When a significant portion of a population is vaccinated, the spread of infectious diseases is diminished, therefore reducing the overall incidence of disease in the community. In contrast, screening for early disease detection and health education programs are essential components of public health strategies but are typically considered secondary and tertiary prevention methods. Screening aims to identify diseases early when they can be treated more effectively, while health education programs focus on informing communities about health-promoting behaviors. Palliative care, on the other hand, is a method of care aimed at improving the quality of life for those with serious illnesses, which is largely focused on management rather than prevention. Thus, while each of these options plays a role in public health, immunizations stand out as a key primary approach to reducing health risks.