A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a group of older adults about collecting home supplies for disaster situations. Which of the following Information should the nurse include in the teaching?
A.
“Replace nonperishable food items annually.”
B.
“Have a backup supply of nonprescription medications.”
C.
Gather enough supplies to last for 2 weeks.”
D.
“Stock 2 liters of water per person per day.”
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. “Have a backup supply of nonprescription medications.”
Explanation:
When preparing for disaster situations, having a well-thought-out plan and adequate supplies is crucial for ensuring health and safety. Here’s a detailed look at why option B is the most appropriate answer:
1. Backup Supply of Nonprescription Medications:
Having a backup supply of nonprescription medications is vital because these medications are often necessary for managing common health issues like headaches, allergies, or digestive problems. In a disaster situation, access to pharmacies may be limited or completely unavailable, making it crucial to have these supplies on hand. This ensures that individuals can manage minor health concerns and prevent conditions from worsening due to a lack of treatment.
2. Replacement of Nonperishable Food Items:
Option A suggests replacing nonperishable food items annually. While it’s important to ensure that food supplies are fresh and not expired, the specific timeframe for replacement can vary depending on the type of food and storage conditions. Instead of focusing on a set timeframe, it’s more important to regularly check and rotate these supplies to ensure their usability.
3. Supplies for 2 Weeks:
Option C mentions gathering enough supplies to last for 2 weeks. While having a two-week supply is a good guideline, it’s not always practical for every situation. The recommendation for emergency supplies often ranges from 72 hours to a week, depending on the specific needs and risks. Therefore, while having a 2-week supply is beneficial, it is not a universal standard.
4. Water Supply:
Option D states stocking 2 liters of water per person per day. This recommendation is actually lower than the suggested amount. The general guideline is to have about 1 gallon (approximately 3.8 liters) of water per person per day to account for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Therefore, this recommendation might be insufficient for meeting hydration and other needs during a disaster.
In summary, while all the options contribute to disaster preparedness, having a backup supply of nonprescription medications is critical because it addresses an immediate need that might not be easily met during a disaster.