The nurse is working in a clinic that is designed to provide health education and immunizations. Which type of preventive care is the nurse providing?

A) Primary prevention
B) Secondary prevention
C) Tertiary prevention
D) Risk factor prevention

Primary prevention precedes disease or dysfunction and is applied to people considered physically and emotionally healthy. Primary prevention includes health education programs, immunizations, and physical and nutritional fitness activities. Secondary prevention focuses on individuals who are experiencing health problems or illnesses and who are at risk for developing complications or worsening conditions. Activities are directed at diagnosis and prompt intervention. Tertiary prevention occurs when a defect or disability is permanent and irreversible. It involves minimizing the effects of long-term disease or disability through interventions directed at preventing complications and deterioration. While risk factor modification is an integral component of health promotion, it is not a type of preventive care.