An elderly resident of a long-term care facility has developed diarrhea and dehydration as a result of exposure to clostridium difficile during a recent outbreak. The resident's primary care provider has consequently prescribed the antibiotic metronidazole (Flagyl). Which model of health promotion and illness prevention is most clearly evident in these events?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Agent-Host-Environment Model considers the interaction between the agent (in this case, clostridium difficile), the host (the elderly resident with weakened immune and gastrointestinal systems), and the environment (the long-term care facility and its hygiene practices) in causing and preventing illness. The choice of prescribing metronidazole is evidence of treatment aimed at eliminating the agent causing the illness.

An Elderly Resident of a Long-Term Care Facility Has Developed