Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which question would best help a nurse obtain information about a client's family medical history?

1. Have any of your family members ever completed genetic testing?

2. Do any of your family members have a genetic disorder?

3. What medical problems have your parents and grandparents experienced?

4. What environmental exposures have you had?

The correct answer is: What medical problems have your parents and grandparents experienced?

Choosing the question about the medical problems experienced by the client's parents and grandparents is particularly effective in gathering comprehensive information about family medical history. This question prompts the client to share specific details regarding hereditary health issues that may be prevalent in their family lineage. By focusing on the medical experiences of direct family members, the nurse can identify potential genetic risks or hereditary conditions that could impact the client's health. This approach is essential in public health nursing, as understanding family medical history enables nurses to develop personalized care plans and interventions that consider genetic predispositions. Additionally, insights gained from this question can help in identifying trends in diseases and can guide further health education and screening practices for both the client and their family members. While asking about genetic testing or genetic disorders can contribute valuable insights, these questions may not provide a complete picture of the family's health history. Environmental exposures, while relevant to a person’s overall health, do not address the genetic aspect specifically linked to familial medical history. Thus, focusing on the medical problems of parents and grandparents offers a broader and more impactful understanding of the client's health context.