Ch. 15: Surveillance and Outbreak Investigation

1. A nurse considered copying last month's surveillance report and changing the date because the number of occurrences per month had not noticeably changed. Which of the following best explains why the nurse should continue to spend time collecting and reporting data that is always nearly the same? A. Because such data are legally required B. Because it is still part of the nurse's responsibilities, even if it is a waste of time C. To determine a local baseline rate and immediately notice any change D. To determine differences among communities in need for state assistance - ANS: C To determine a local baseline rate and immediately notice any change Disease surveillance helps establish baseline (endemic) rates of disease occurrence and patterns of spread. Surveillance makes it possible to initiate a rapid response to an outbreak of a disease or event that can cause a health problem. DIF: Cognitive Level: Apply (Application) REF: pp. 267-268