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The public health nurse is assigned to the population of clients in an inner-city community. The nurse identifies which of the following as a priority intervention?

Choice A reason:

Blunt force trauma refers to injuries caused by impact with a blunt object, resulting in contusions, abrasions, lacerations, or fractures. While blunt force trauma can occur in explosions, it is typically associated with tertiary blast injuries, where the victim is thrown against a solid object. Secondary injuries from high-order explosives are more specifically related to penetrating injuries caused by flying debris and shrapnel.

Choice B reason:

Hollow organ damage is a type of primary blast injury caused by the overpressure wave from an explosion. This wave can cause significant damage to gas-filled organs such as the lungs, intestines, and ears. However, secondary injuries are not typically characterized by hollow organ damage. Secondary injuries are more commonly associated with penetrating trauma from debris and shrapnel.

Choice C reason:

Post-trauma stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While PTSD is a serious and common consequence of exposure to explosions and other traumatic events, it is not classified as a secondary injury. Secondary injuries refer to physical injuries caused by flying debris and shrapnel, not psychological conditions.

Choice D reason:

Penetrating injuries are the hallmark of secondary blast injuries. These injuries occur when fragments from the explosive device or surrounding materials are propelled at high velocity, causing wounds that penetrate the skin and underlying tissues. These injuries can be severe and life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention. The nurse should anticipate and be prepared to manage penetrating injuries in clients exposed to high-order explosives.

Choice A reason:

Developing a survey on teen pregnancies is important for understanding the prevalence and factors contributing to teen pregnancies in the community. However, it is not the most immediate priority intervention. Surveys are useful for data collection but do not provide immediate insights into the overall community health needs.

Choice B reason:

Holding a focus group to discuss immunizations is valuable for gathering community input and addressing concerns about vaccinations. While this is an important public health activity, it is more specific and does not provide a comprehensive overview of the community’s health needs.

Choice C reason:

Performing a windshield survey is a priority intervention for a public health nurse assigned to a new community. This type of survey involves systematically observing the community to gather information about its overall health status, resources, and needs. It provides a broad overview that can inform more targeted interventions and programs.

Choice D reason:

Interviewing the elderly at the senior’s center is important for understanding the specific needs of this population group. However, it is a more focused intervention and does not provide a comprehensive assessment of the entire community’s health needs.