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 when completing this assignment. A minimum of three peer-reviewed or professional references is required. Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Styl Purchase the answer to view it
The field of epidemiology plays a crucial role in understanding communicable diseases and formulating effective prevention and control strategies. This paper will apply the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research to a specific communicable disease in order to understand its transmission, risk factors, and implications for nursing practice. The chosen disease for this analysis is tuberculosis (TB), a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
The communicable disease chain is a framework that helps in understanding the spread of diseases. It consists of six links: infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host (Stanhope, & Lancaster, 2019). In the case of TB, the infectious agent is the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. The reservoir can be humans, as TB is primarily a human disease, or animals in rare cases. The portal of exit for the bacteria is primarily through coughing or sneezing, as the bacteria is aerosolized in respiratory droplets. This mode of transmission is known as droplet transmission. The portal of entry for TB is the respiratory system, specifically the lungs. Finally, a susceptible host becomes infected when they are exposed to the bacteria and have low immunity. Factors like malnutrition, HIV infection, and immunosuppressive medications can increase susceptibility to TB (World Health Organization, 2020).
The chain of infection is another important concept in understanding communicable diseases. It involves six elements: an infectious agent, a reservoir, a portal of exit, a mode of transmission, a portal of entry, and a susceptible host (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2021). In the case of TB, the infectious agent is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The reservoir is the human population, particularly individuals with active TB who are coughing and spreading the bacteria. The portal of exit is the respiratory system, through coughing, speaking, or sneezing. The mode of transmission is primarily through inhaling respiratory droplets containing the bacteria. The portal of entry is the respiratory system, particularly the lungs. Susceptible hosts are individuals who have been exposed to the bacteria and have factors that increase their risk of developing active TB, such as impaired immunity or close contact with an infectious individual (CDC, 2021).
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2021), TB is primarily transmitted through airborne droplets that are generated when an infectious individual coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. The droplets contain bacteria that can be inhaled by a susceptible person. Close and prolonged contact with an infectious individual increases the risk of transmission. Factors that contribute to the spread of TB include inadequate healthcare access, poverty, homelessness, and presence of other risk factors such as HIV/AIDS. In healthcare settings, TB can also be transmitted through exposure to aerosolized respiratory droplets generated during procedures like intubation or bronchoscopy (CDC, 2021).
Nursing plays a crucial role in the prevention, control, and management of communicable diseases, including TB. Nurses can contribute to TB prevention through screening and identifying individuals at risk, educating the public about TB, and promoting adherence to treatment regimens among those diagnosed with the disease. Nurses can also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to implement infection control measures in healthcare settings, such as ensuring proper ventilation, using respiratory protection, and implementing isolation precautions for patients with suspected or confirmed TB (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2019).
Nursing research is essential for improving the prevention and management of communicable diseases like TB. Research studies can contribute valuable knowledge regarding the effectiveness of interventions, risk factors, and strategies for promoting prevention and adherence to treatment. For example, a study by Li et al. (2020) examined the impact of a multifaceted intervention on TB screening and treatment adherence among marginalized populations in China. The study found that the intervention, which included community-based screening, education, and support, resulted in improved treatment initiation and completion rates among individuals with TB. This research highlights the importance of tailored interventions that address social determinants of health and engage communities in order to improve outcomes in TB prevention and control (Li et al., 2020).
In conclusion, the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research are vital for understanding communicable diseases like TB and informing nursing practice. Understanding the communicable disease chain and the chain of infection helps in identifying the key elements and processes involved in the transmission of TB. Nurses play a crucial role in TB prevention through education, screening, and promoting adherence to treatment. Nursing research contributes valuable knowledge to improve prevention and control strategies for this highly contagious disease. Continued research and collaboration between healthcare professionals are essential for effectively addressing the impact of TB on individuals and communities.