NR 586 Week 4 Application of Epidemiology Worksheet

NR 586 Week 4 Application of Epidemiology Worksheet

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-586: Population Health and Epidemiology for Advanced Nursing Practice

Prof. Name:

Date

Prevalent Infectious and Chronic Diseases

Colorado, a western U.S. state, is characterized by diverse landscapes that include arid deserts, river canyons, and the snow-covered Rocky Mountains. The state’s population is approximately 5.8 million, with Denver as the most populous city and capital. Colorado’s climate varies significantly between mountainous areas and plains, impacting health conditions across different regions (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023).

Several infectious and chronic diseases are prevalent in Colorado. Common infectious diseases include influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and, more recently, monkeypox. Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cancer are also widespread. Additionally, obesity and mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, pose significant health challenges in the region (Schmieding & Monk, 2023; Peterson & Jones, 2023).

Comparing Colorado to Florida highlights both similarities and differences in disease prevalence. Both states report high rates of influenza and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, Florida experiences a higher incidence of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika, Dengue, and West Nile virus due to its warm climate. Furthermore, Florida’s larger elderly population contributes to increased rates of Alzheimer’s disease compared to Colorado (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 2023). These differences are influenced by various factors such as climate, demographics, and lifestyle. Colorado’s colder climate contributes to seasonal respiratory illnesses, while Florida’s warm and humid conditions foster mosquito-borne diseases. Additionally, Colorado’s active lifestyle may contribute to lower obesity rates compared to other states.

Application of the Epidemiological Model

Monkeypox, a viral zoonotic disease, has emerged as a significant public health concern. Its symptoms resemble those of smallpox, and transmission occurs through close skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual’s lesions, body fluids, or respiratory secretions (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023).

Several determinants of health influence the spread of monkeypox. Physical determinants include healthcare accessibility, climate conditions affecting virus survival, and population density. Social determinants encompass public awareness, healthcare accessibility, socioeconomic status, and cultural behaviors that contribute to disease spread.

The Epidemiological Triangle serves as a useful model for understanding monkeypox. This model consists of three components: the agent, host, and environment. The agent in this case is the monkeypox virus, an Orthopoxvirus. The host includes humans, particularly those in close contact with infected individuals. The environment comprises settings that facilitate transmission, such as healthcare facilities and households. Public health measures such as isolation, vaccination, and hygiene practices help modify these environmental factors to reduce disease spread (CDC, 2023).

Levels of Prevention

Public health strategies rely on three levels of prevention: primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Primary prevention focuses on preventing disease occurrence through vaccination and education. Secondary prevention aims at early detection and intervention, such as PCR testing and immediate isolation of confirmed cases. Tertiary prevention involves managing disease progression through antiviral treatments and supportive care to improve recovery outcomes (CDC, 2023).

A key primary prevention strategy for monkeypox is vaccination. The JYNNEOS vaccine is recommended for high-risk populations, including healthcare workers, to prevent transmission. Secondary prevention includes early diagnosis via PCR testing, allowing for prompt isolation of cases. Tertiary prevention involves symptom management through antiviral medications and supportive care to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes (CDC, 2023).

Advanced practice nurses (APNs) play a vital role in monitoring these prevention strategies. They track vaccination rates, conduct regular screenings, analyze trends, evaluate educational programs, and ensure compliance with infection control measures. In practice, APNs can administer vaccinations, enforce personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines, educate communities, and collaborate with public health authorities to enhance disease prevention efforts. This assignment has reinforced the importance of integrating vaccinations, screenings, and infection control practices into a comprehensive public health strategy. These insights will enhance my ability to contribute effectively to patient care and disease prevention in my nursing practice.

Table: Epidemiological Analysis of Monkeypox in Colorado

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Monkeypox transmission in healthcare settings. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7138e2.htm?s_cmm7138e2_w

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). National Center for Health Statistics. State Health Facts. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/states/colorado/colorado.htm

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. (2023). Health Indicators. Retrieved from https://cdphe.colorado.gov/center-for-health-and-environmental-data

NR 586 Week 4 Application of Epidemiology Worksheet

Peterson, B., & Jones, D. (2023). Cardiovascular Disease Trends in Colorado: A Comprehensive Review. American Journal of Cardiology, 131(6), 1025-1032.

Schmieding, S., & Monk, E. J. (2023). Respiratory Syncytial Virus Surveillance in Colorado. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 227(4), 678-685.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). QuickFacts: Colorado. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/CO