Write a paper (2,000-2,500 words) in which you apply the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research to a communicable disease. Refer to “Communicable Disease Chain,” “Chain of Infection,” and the CDC website for assistance completing this assignment. Choose one communicable disease from the following list: A minimum of three peer-reviewed or professional references is required. APA format and plagarism free.
Title: Application of Epidemiology and Nursing Research in the Management of Tuberculosis
Introduction:
Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly infectious communicable disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the respiratory system. It remains a significant global health challenge, causing considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. In this paper, we will apply the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research to understand and manage the transmission, prevention, and treatment of TB.
Epidemiology and Communicable Disease Chain:
Epidemiology, the study of disease patterns and determinants, plays a vital role in understanding the transmission dynamics of communicable diseases like TB. The communicable disease chain provides a framework for understanding the stages and modes of transmission.
The first stage in the chain is the infectious agent, in this case, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is transmitted through infected respiratory droplets. The second stage involves the reservoir, which is the human population with active or latent TB infection. Airborne transmission occurs when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks, releasing the bacterium into the air. The next stage is the portal of exit, where the bacterium leaves the reservoir. This occurs primarily through respiratory secretions expelled by coughing or sneezing. The portal of entry is the route by which the infectious agent enters a susceptible host. In the case of TB, the respiratory system is the main portal of entry. Finally, the susceptible host is an individual who lacks immunity to the infectious agent and can become infected.
Chain of Infection:
The chain of infection further explains the process by which communicable diseases are transmitted. Understanding the different links in this chain helps in identifying points for intervention and control. The chain consists of six elements:
1. Infectious Agent: The causative organism, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, plays a crucial role in the transmission and severity of TB. Different strains exhibit varying degrees of virulence and antibiotic resistance, affecting disease outcomes.
2. Reservoir: Humans infected with active TB act as the primary reservoir. These individuals expel the bacteria through respiratory droplets, making them potential sources of infection.
3. Portal of Exit: The respiratory tract, specifically the lungs, serves as the primary portal of exit for the infectious agent. When infected individuals cough or sneeze, they release respiratory droplets containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis into the air.
4. Mode of Transmission: TB primarily spreads via airborne droplet transmission. When susceptible individuals inhale contaminated droplets containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis, infection can occur.
5. Portal of Entry: The respiratory system, specifically the alveoli, acts as the portal of entry for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacterium establishes itself in the lungs, leading to pulmonary TB. In some cases, it may disseminate to other organs, causing extrapulmonary TB.
6. Susceptible Host: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or other comorbidities, are particularly vulnerable to TB infection. Factors such as age, smoking, and overcrowding also increase susceptibility.
TB Epidemiology:
Understanding the epidemiology of TB facilitates the development of effective preventive and control strategies. The incidence, prevalence, and risk factors associated with TB vary by geographic location, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access.
TB incidence refers to the number of new cases within a specified population over a given time period. In 2019, an estimated 10 million people developed TB worldwide, with the highest burden seen in low-to-middle income countries. Prevalence refers to the total number of cases, old and new, within a population at a specific point or period. It reflects the overall burden of TB in a given area.
Various risk factors contribute to TB transmission and susceptibility. These include living in crowded environments, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, poverty, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, and immunocompromising conditions. Social determinants of health, such as poverty and limited access to healthcare, influence the risk of TB infection and disease progression.
End of provided content