A nurse is implementing a test that screens for hypercholesterolemia.Which of the following parameters should this test have?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The goal of a screening program, identifying an individual as high risk or not, depends on the numerical value of the screening instrument.When the parameter for this distinction is not clear, a cutoff point is set.Above this point, the person is considered disease positive; below this point, the individual is considered disease negative.Thus, if the disease were potentially life-threatening or if a disease is relatively benign in terms of stigmatization, anxiety, and problems with treatment, the lower cutoff would be preferred.High cholesterol, if left untreated, could contribute to life-threatening cardiac disease.Additionally, it is benign in terms of stigmatization.Therefore, a lower cutoff point should be set.

A Nurse Is Implementing a Test That Screens for Hypercholesterolemia