environmental factors

What are the three components of the Epidemiological Triangle?

• Agent (exposure)

• Host (human)

• Environment (surroundings of the host)

In the Epidemiological Triangle, what does the Agent represent?

The exposure.

In the Epidemiological Triangle, what does the Host represent?

The human.

In the Epidemiological Triangle, what does the Environment represent?

The surroundings of the host.

What features constitute the Natural Environment?

• Soil

• Water

• Oceans

• Atmosphere

What features constitute the Built Environment?

• Roads

• Buildings

• Transportation

What type of illness is primarily caused by Air Pollution?

Respiratory illness.

What does AQI stand for, and what is its purpose?

Air Quality Index — a color-coded measurement of air pollution.

What are the AQI color codes for the numerical ranges 0 to 50 and 51 to 100?

• 0 to 50 = Green

• 51 to 100 = Yellow

What are the AQI color codes for the numerical ranges 101 to 150 and 151 to 200?

• 101 to 150 = Orange

• 151 to 200 = Red

What are the AQI color codes for the numerical ranges 201 to 300 and 301 to 500?

• 201 to 300 = Purple

• 301 to 500 = Maroon

What are common contaminants found in Water Pollution, and what type of illness do they cause?

• Contaminants: Human/animal wastes, pesticides/herbicides, bacteria, and parasites.

• Illness: Gastrointestinal (GI) illness.

What three primary human activities contribute to increasing greenhouse gas emissions (GGE) and global warming?

• Burning fossil fuels

• Deforestation

• Agricultural waste (specifically manure and fertilizers)

What are two potential severe long-term global risks associated with rising greenhouse gas emissions (GGE)?

• Higher sea levels and eventual land submersion.

• Species elimination risks.

What are three critical community health consequences of natural disasters (e.g., tornados, hurricanes, earthquakes, fires)?

• Widespread damage and destruction of healthcare facilities.

• Damaged food and water supplies, which can cause famine.

• High psychological stress (making stress debriefing vital after a disaster).

What immediate nursing intervention is vital for a community following a natural disaster to support mental health?

Stress debriefing

What are four specific pathogens identified as biological agents that can be used for bioterrorism?

• Anthrax

• Smallpox

• Botulism

• Plague

Where is Lead typically found, what impairment does it cause, and who is most vulnerable?

• Source: Found in some paints.

• Impairment: Causes neurologic impairment.

• Vulnerable population: Children are highly susceptible to poisoning.

Where is Asbestos found, how does exposure occur, and what damage does it cause?

• Source: Found in insulating materials and automotive products.

• Exposure: Becomes airborne during repairs and is inhaled.

• Damage: Inhalation causes lung damage.

What are the distinct characteristics of Radon, where is it located, and how does it enter human structures?

• Characteristics: Colorless, odorless gas.

• Location: Found naturally in soil.

• Entry: Can seep into homes through the ground.

Where does Mold typically grow, and what adverse physical symptom does it cause in humans?

• Growth environment: Damp areas.

• Symptom: Causes respiratory distress.

What is the purpose of the I PREPARE mnemonic in nursing practice?

It is a tool used by nurses to conduct a comprehensive environmental health exposure assessment.

what is the I PREPARE mnemonic

I = Investigate potential exposure

P = Present work

R = Residence

E = Environmental concerns

P = Past work

A = Activities

R = Referrals and resources

E = Educate

What are the primary roles and responsibilities of a nurse regarding community environmental health?

• Assessment of environmental factors affecting health (including conducting windshield surveys).

• Health promotion and disease prevention.

• Advocacy and policy development.

• Elimination of systemic barriers.

What type of community assessment method does a nurse use to observe environmental factors directly in the field?

A windshield survey

What are six specific practical strategies/interventions implemented to improve community environmental health?

• Smoke alarm installation programs

• Structural changes to prevent drowning

• Forest preservation

• Immunizations

• Health policy to reduce harmful emissions

• Education (e.g., seatbelts, sun protection)

What are the four core systemic pillars needed to create sustainable communities?

• Affordable and clean energy

• Clean water

• Reduced harmful consumption and production

• Forest preservation / Environmental policy to reduce emissions