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 Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required. Purchase the answer to view it Purchase the answer to view it
Title: Epidemiology and Nursing Research in Tuberculosis: A Comparative Study
Introduction
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria. It primarily affects the lungs but can also affect other organs in the body. TB is a major global health concern, with an estimated 10 million new cases and 1.5 million deaths reported in 2018 (World Health Organization, 2019). This paper aims to apply the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research to TB, focusing on the communicable disease chain and the chain of infection. By understanding these concepts, healthcare professionals can effectively prevent, control, and manage the spread of TB.
Communicable Disease Chain
The communicable disease chain is a conceptual framework that demonstrates the transmission and progression of communicable diseases. Through this framework, we can identify the key components required for disease transmission and subsequently develop targeted intervention strategies. The communicable disease chain for TB consists of six components: infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2019).
The infectious agent of TB is Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium is transmitted through respiratory droplets when individuals with active TB cough, sneeze, or talk. The reservoir for TB is primarily humans, particularly those with active TB. However, animals can also be a reservoir for certain strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The portal of exit for TB is typically the respiratory tract, specifically the upper respiratory tract (CDC, 2019).
The mode of transmission of TB is primarily through airborne droplets. When individuals with active TB cough or sneeze, the bacteria become aerosolized and can be inhaled by susceptible individuals in close proximity. TB bacteria can also be transmitted through contaminated surfaces, although this mode of transmission is less common. The portal of entry for TB is the respiratory tract, where the bacteria can enter the body and establish an infection (CDC, 2019).
The final component of the communicable disease chain is the susceptible host. For TB, certain factors increase an individual’s susceptibility to the disease, including immunodeficiency (e.g., HIV infection), malnutrition, overcrowding, and poor access to healthcare. Individuals with compromised immune systems are more likely to develop active TB if exposed to the bacteria (CDC, 2019).
Chain of Infection
The chain of infection is another crucial concept in understanding the transmission and control of communicable diseases. It consists of six links: infectious agent, reservoir, portal of exit, mode of transmission, portal of entry, and susceptible host. However, in the chain of infection model, the emphasis is on the modes of transmission and the interventions necessary to break the chain (CDC, 2019).
In the context of TB, the primary mode of transmission is through airborne droplets containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis. To break the chain of transmission, several interventions can be implemented. Firstly, early detection and treatment of active TB cases are crucial for reducing the number of individuals with infectious TB. This can be achieved through screening programs, especially in high-risk populations (e.g., individuals with HIV, close contacts of TB cases). Prompt identification of individuals with latent TB infection and provision of preventive therapy can also prevent the progression to active TB (CDC, 2019).
Another important intervention is the implementation of infection prevention and control measures in healthcare facilities. This includes ensuring proper ventilation systems, enforcing respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, using personal protective equipment, and conducting regular training and education for healthcare workers. These measures help minimize the risk of transmission within healthcare settings and protect both healthcare providers and patients (CDC, 2019).
Furthermore, the chain of transmission can be disrupted through contact tracing and management of close contacts of TB cases. By identifying individuals who have been in close contact with TB patients and providing appropriate screening, testing, and treatment, the spread of TB can be effectively contained. Additionally, public health initiatives, such as community education campaigns and awareness programs, can play a crucial role in promoting TB prevention and control (CDC, 2019).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the concepts of epidemiology and nursing research are vital in understanding and addressing the challenges posed by TB. The communicable disease chain and the chain of infection frameworks provide a comprehensive understanding of the transmission and progression of TB. By applying these concepts, healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions, promote early detection and treatment, implement infection prevention and control measures, and engage in contact tracing and management. Through a multidisciplinary approach, TB can be effectively controlled and managed, leading to a reduction in the disease burden and improved global health outcomes.