The nurse is preparing to teach a client how to prevent influenza. What is the best approach for individuals to take to prevent influenza?

Question

1. Annual vaccination
2. Take vitamin C daily.
3. Weekly lab testing
4. Annual physical examination

Answer 1

1

Rationale 1: The best approach to influenza infection is prevention through annual vaccination.
Rationale 2:Vitamin C therapy has not been proven to prevent influenza.
Rationale 3:Weekly lab testing is not evidence based nor supported by insurance plans or prescribers.
Rationale 4:Annual physical examination is helpful for assessment of the general health of the client.

Global Rationale: The best approach to influenza infection is prevention through annual vaccination. Weekly lab testing is not effective to prevent an influenza infection. Those who benefit greatly from vaccinations include residents of long-term care facilities, those with chronic cardiopulmonary disease, women who will be in their second or third trimester during the peak flu season, and healthy adults older than age 50.