NCLEX · Immunizations and Health Screening

What is the general nursing principle regarding client education about recommended screenings and immunizations?

Correct answer

Provide accurate, understandable information about recommended preventive measures so clients can make informed decisions, and refer to current authoritative guidelines

  1. A Withhold information from clients
  2. B Provide accurate, understandable information about recommended preventive measures so clients can make informed decisions, and refer to current authoritative guidelines
  3. C Tell clients preventive care is unnecessary
  4. D Make decisions for the client without explanation

Why this is the answer

The general nursing principle is to provide clients with accurate, understandable information about recommended preventive measures — such as screenings and immunizations appropriate to their age and risk — so they can make informed decisions, while relying on and referring to current authoritative guidelines. The nurse supports informed decision-making rather than withholding information, dismissing prevention, or deciding for the client. Because specific recommendations change over time, nurses use up-to-date sources. Understanding the educational, informed-decision-support role in prevention is a standard health-promotion concept. (Specific recommendations must be verified against current authoritative guidance and NCLEX prep materials.)
Source: NCLEX-PN Health Promotion — Preventive Education