Order 1712375: injury prevention | Nursing homework help
Injuries are a significant public health issue, and prevention strategies are necessary to reduce the incidence and impact of injuries. The following are five types of injuries that impact public health along with their rates and prevention strategies:
- Falls: Falls are a common cause of injury, especially in older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four older adults falls each year. Strategies to prevent falls include exercise programs to improve balance and strength, ensuring the home environment is free from tripping hazards, and wearing appropriate footwear.
- Motor vehicle crashes: Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury and death in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, there were 36,096 fatalities in motor vehicle crashes in the United States. Prevention strategies include wearing seat belts, obeying traffic laws, and not driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Poisoning: Poisoning can occur from a variety of sources, including medications, household chemicals, and illicit drugs. According to the CDC, poisoning is the leading cause of injury death in the United States. Prevention strategies include properly storing medications and household chemicals, safely disposing of expired or unused medications, and seeking treatment for substance abuse.
- Burns: Burns can result from a variety of sources, including fire, hot liquids, and chemicals. According to the American Burn Association, there were 486,000 burn injuries that required medical treatment in 2016. Prevention strategies include keeping hot liquids and foods away from children, properly storing flammable liquids, and using caution when handling hot items.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): TBIs can result from a blow or jolt to the head, and can have significant long-term effects. According to the CDC, TBIs contribute to about 30% of all injury deaths. Prevention strategies include wearing helmets during high-risk activities such as sports and riding bicycles, and taking steps to prevent falls.
In conclusion, injuries are a significant public health issue, and prevention strategies are necessary to reduce the incidence and impact of injuries. By identifying the rates of these injuries and implementing prevention strategies, we can work to create a safer and healthier community.