The population health nurse is reviewing data collected on a group of

The population health nurse is reviewing data collected on a group of patients to determine which patients are experiencing the same health problem. In which step of the epidemiologic process is the nurse functioning?

1. Defining the condition.
2. Developing control strategies.
3. Identifying strategic points of control.
4. Determining the natural history of the condition.

ESSAYBID ANSWER

Answer: 1
Explanation: 1. The nurse is working within the first step of the process or defining the condition. The nurse is working to clearly define what is, and what is not, an instance of the problem. Developing control strategies is the fourth step of the process and occurs after the condition is defined, the natural history of the condition is determined, and strategic points of control have been identified. When identifying strategic points of control the nurse identifies strategic points at which the development or course of the condition might be controlled. Determining the natural history of the condition is a description of the events that precede its development and occur during its course, as well as its typical outcomes. This step occurs after the condition is defined.