Author Question: An outbreak of foodborne botulism has occurred in the community, and the nurse is on the disaster ... (Read 163 times)

CBme · **on:** Jul 8, 2018

An outbreak of foodborne botulism has occurred in the community, and the nurse is on the disaster management team to address it. Which intervention should the nurse expect to implement in this situation?

A) Administration of antivirals
B) Administration of antibiotics
C) Distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE)
D) Administration of antitoxins

Question 2

The nurse is appointed to be a member of the risk communication team during a disaster response situation. During an evacuation, the nurse is informed that an increasing number of individuals are reluctant to leave their homes.

To complete an orderly evacuation, it is necessary to:
A) Involve the armed forces
B) Declare martial law
C) Create an environment of trust and credibility
D) Disseminate information regarding the necessity of the evacuation

fwbard · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 8, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Ans: D
Feedback:
In botulism, muscle weakness begins and descends through the body. At the point where breathing muscles are involved, ventilator assistance becomes necessary. Antitoxin must be administered because a toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum is the cause of the paralysis. A supply of this antitoxin is maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antivirals and antibiotics would not be appropriate, as botulism is a toxin, not a virus or bacterium. Distribution of PPE would be unnecessary.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
Feedback:
Risk communication often involves multiple messages between multiple groups concerning the nature of risk. The perception of the risk depends on the circumstances. For example, although a voluntary evacuation may produce anxiety, it is more acceptable than one imposed on citizens. Earning trust and credibility is essential for effective risk communication. It is especially important when dealing with the fear factor associated with a deliberate attack. During this process, public health officials and representatives must provide clear, accurate information in such a way that fear is minimized. Thus, it would not be appropriate to involve the armed forces or declare martial law. There is likely no time to disseminate information regarding the necessity of the evacuation.