Help with primary, secondary and tertiary prevention

HappyWife77, BSN, RN · Aug 21, 2014

Usually you have a textbook that is the go to as far knowing the correct definitions and refer to for exams. At least we did in class.

My understanding is primary is in the hospital care, secondary is providing knowledge and education for maintenance, while tertiary is keeping them healthy and at home. Like giving someone a monthly shot and providing groceries to them at home.

Hope this helps some.

203bravo, MSN, APRN · Aug 22, 2014

Primary prevention seeks to prevent someone from getting a disease - could include education, life style modification, vaccinations, etc

Secondary - once someone has a disease it seeks to cure or limit the impact of the disease - this is the level that you see a lot of screenings for early detection of a disease for early treatment

Tertiary - once the disease has progressed then we seek to help the patient to recover as much as possible and prevent further complications -- cardiac rehab following heart attack, follow up exams, assuring that routine medications are being taken as prescribed

mrsboots87 · Aug 22, 2014

My instructors and book explain exactly like what the PP said. Primary is actual prevention of disease by lifestyle management, vaccines, and such. Secondary is screening for and finding the beginning stages of a disease and treat. Tertiary is essentially the rehab since the disease has been treated and the goal is now to prevent further disease or worsening of the current disease process.

jennaroo · Aug 22, 2014

Thanks guys, this is what my book says as well.....I guess I was more conflicted as to whether I should listen to the instructor with the explanation that matches my book or the instructor that gave a dif. answer but is giving the test.......I appreciate the help

phuretrotr · Aug 22, 2014

Good way to remember for the tests:

Primary - Prevent

Secondary - Screen

Tertiary - Treat

jennaroo · Aug 22, 2014

THANKS!!! That is a great way to remember it