MSN 5550 Health Promotion: Prevention of Disease
Case Study Module 6
Instructions: Read the following case study and answer the reflective questions. Please provide
evidence-based rationales for your answers. APA, 7th ed. must be followed.
Due: Saturday by 23:59 pm
CASE STUDY: Albert
Albert Mitchell is a 36-year-old man who will be traveling to Dubai to give a business
presentation in 3 months. Although he has traveled widely in the United States as a consultant,
this is his first trip to the Middle East.
He requests information regarding immunizations needed before his trip. Albert states that as
he will be in Dubai for only a few days, he is unlikely to contract a disease in such a short time
and therefore believes that it is illogical to obtain immunizations.
Albert states that he has heard that the side effects of the immunizations might be worse than
the diseases they prevent. He is also concerned about leaving his wife at home alone because
she is 6 months pregnant.
Reflective Questions
How would you address Albert’s beliefs?
What learning would be needed in each domain?
What learning theories would you consider?
How might his family concerns be addressed?
Reflective Questions
1. How would you address Albert’s beliefs?
Addressing Albert’s Beliefs: To address Albert’s beliefs effectively, it is important to provide evidence-based information about the risks and benefits of immunizations. I would start by acknowledging his concerns to build rapport and trust. Then, I would explain the importance of immunizations, even for short trips, by highlighting the following points:
- Risk of Disease Exposure: Explain that while the duration of his stay is short, exposure to certain diseases can occur quickly. Some diseases prevalent in the Middle East, like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and certain types of influenza, can be contracted through contaminated food, water, or even close contact.
- Severity of Diseases: Emphasize that the diseases prevented by vaccines can be severe, leading to significant health issues, which could interfere with his ability to work and potentially have long-term consequences.
- Safety and Efficacy of Vaccines: Provide information on the rigorous testing vaccines undergo to ensure their safety and efficacy. Explain that side effects are generally mild and temporary compared to the potential severity of the diseases they prevent.
- Public Health Perspective: Highlight the role of immunizations in preventing the spread of diseases, protecting not only the individual but also the broader community, including his pregnant wife.
2. What learning would be needed in each domain?
Cognitive Domain:
- Understanding the types of diseases prevalent in the Middle East and the importance of immunizations in preventing these diseases.
- Knowledge about the safety and efficacy of vaccines, and common misconceptions about vaccine side effects.
Affective Domain:
- Addressing fears and concerns about vaccines by acknowledging his worries and providing emotional support.
- Building a positive attitude towards immunizations by discussing their benefits in a reassuring manner.
Psychomotor Domain:
- Demonstrating proper health practices for international travel, such as hand hygiene and safe food and water consumption, to complement the protection offered by vaccines.
3. What learning theories would you consider?
Learning Theories to Consider:
Health Belief Model (HBM):
- This model can help understand Albert’s perceptions of the severity of diseases, his susceptibility to them, and the benefits of immunizations versus perceived barriers. By addressing these aspects, we can help him make an informed decision.
Social Cognitive Theory:
- Emphasize observational learning and self-efficacy. Providing stories or testimonials from individuals who have traveled to similar regions and benefited from immunizations can help reinforce positive behaviors.
Adult Learning Theory (Andragogy):
- Recognize Albert’s self-directed nature and his need to understand the rationale behind immunizations. Provide relevant, problem-centered information and involve him in the decision-making process to enhance his learning experience.
4. How might his family concerns be addressed?
Addressing Family Concerns:
- Reassurance about Safety: Explain that receiving recommended immunizations is a proactive step to ensure he stays healthy and can return safely to his wife and future child.
- Health Education for His Wife: Provide information and resources on maintaining health during pregnancy, ensuring she has access to medical care and support while he is away.
- Contingency Plans: Discussing plans in case of emergencies, ensuring she has support systems in place, and providing contacts for local healthcare providers who can assist if needed.
- Emotional Support: Encourage open communication between Albert and his wife to discuss their concerns and feelings about the upcoming trip, helping both feel more prepared and supported.
Evidence-Based Rationales
To support these points, I would reference:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on travel vaccinations and health recommendations for Dubai.
- World Health Organization (WHO) resources on vaccine safety and efficacy.
- Recent studies and articles from peer-reviewed journals on the effectiveness of travel immunizations and common concerns about vaccine side effects.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Travelers’ health. https://www.cdc.gov/travel
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Vaccine safety. https://www.who.int/vaccine_safety/en/
- McCarthy, M., & Gilmour, J. (2017). The importance of vaccines: Moving past the debate. Journal of Travel Medicine, 24(6), 1-3. doi:10.1093/jtm/tax047
- National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Vaccines and immunizations. https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/vaccine-research