The charge nurse notes that two patients had communicable infectious d

The charge nurse notes that two patients had communicable infectious diseases and were treated appropriately. Which of the following actions should be taken next by the nurse?

a. Depends on your state health department’s requirements
b. Report the two cases to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
c. Report the two cases to your regional health department
d. Send the information for inclusion in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

ESSAYBID ANSWER

ANS: A
Because state health departments have the responsibility for monitoring and controlling communicable diseases within their respective states, they determine which diseases will be reported within their jurisdiction. Because the state health department requirements will dictate what action is taken next, it may not be necessary to report the cases to the CDC, regional health department, or to the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.