Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What is the best strategy for a nurse providing outreach to a family affected by a past disaster?

1. Assess the family's readiness to move forward.

2. Avoid discussions about the disaster.

3. Encourage the family to forget their past experiences.

4. Support the family in creating a personal disaster response plan.

The correct answer is: Support the family in creating a personal disaster response plan.

Supporting the family in creating a personal disaster response plan is a proactive and constructive strategy. This approach empowers family members by involving them in the planning process, promoting resilience, and enhancing their ability to cope with future emergencies. It recognizes that the experience of a past disaster can have lasting impacts, and rather than avoiding the topic or urging forgetfulness, it focuses on developing practical skills and preparedness. Creating a personal disaster response plan allows the family to articulate their needs, preferences, and available resources, fostering a sense of control and agency. This not only helps in reducing anxiety related to possible future events but also helps the family members to communicate openly about their past experiences, facilitating healing and recovery. The strategy aligns with public health principles by aiming for community resilience and preparing individuals to respond effectively in times of crisis, thus contributing to overall public health efforts.