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. An abstract is not required. This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
Epidemiology is a discipline within the health sciences that focuses on studying the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in specific populations. It plays a crucial role in understanding and controlling communicable diseases, which are illnesses caused by infectious agents that can be transmitted from one person to another. Nursing research, on the other hand, involves the systematic investigation of phenomena related to nursing practice, with the aim of generating knowledge that can inform and improve nursing care. In this paper, we will apply the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research to the study of a communicable disease.
The communicable disease selected for this paper is tuberculosis (TB), which is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. TB primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, spine, and brain. It is transmitted through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, releasing droplets containing the bacteria. People in close contact with the infected individual are at a higher risk of contracting the disease.
To understand and control the spread of TB, epidemiological principles are applied. The first step is to identify the agent, which in this case is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The next step is to determine the reservoir, which refers to the natural environment or source where the agent resides. In the case of TB, humans are the reservoir. Infected individuals harbor the bacteria in their lungs and can transmit it to others through respiratory droplets.
The mode of transmission for TB is through inhalation of infected droplets. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the bacteria can be released into the air, and if inhaled by another person, can lead to infection. The susceptible host, in this case, is any individual who does not have immunity to the bacteria. Factors that increase susceptibility to TB include HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, diabetes, and smoking.
In terms of the chain of infection, TB follows a specific sequence of events. The first link in the chain is the infectious agent, the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The second link is the reservoir, which is the human host. The third link is the portal of exit, which is the respiratory system through which the bacteria are expelled from the infected individual’s body. The fourth link is the mode of transmission, which in the case of TB, is inhalation of infected droplets. The fifth link is the portal of entry, which is also the respiratory system, as the bacteria enter the new host through inhalation. The sixth link is the susceptible host, who is at risk of developing the disease if exposed to the bacteria.
To prevent and control the spread of TB, various measures can be taken. One important strategy is early detection and treatment of active cases. This includes prompt diagnosis through diagnostic tests like sputum smear microscopy and chest X-rays, followed by appropriate medication such as antibiotics to treat the infection. Contact tracing is also important to identify and test individuals who have been in close contact with the infected person. This allows for early detection of new cases and prevents further transmission. Additionally, public health education campaigns can raise awareness about TB, its symptoms, and the importance of seeking medical help.