Epidemiology: outbreak investigation first step: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Epidemiology: outbreak investigation first step

Sample item

After a report of a cluster of diarrhoea cases in a hostel, what is the first step of outbreak investigation?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Verify the diagnosis and confirm the existence of an outbreak

The usual first steps are to verify the diagnosis and confirm that the number of cases exceeds the expected baseline. Case definition, line listing, hypothesis generation and control measures follow.

Option by option

  • A. Conduct an analytical study of risk factors

    Analytical studies come after descriptive epidemiology and hypotheses.

  • B. Verify the diagnosis and confirm the existence of an outbreak (correct)

    Correct. Verification precedes every other action.

  • C. Publish a report in the media

    Public communication follows verification.

  • D. Implement mass chemoprophylaxis

    Chemoprophylaxis without confirmation could be unnecessary and harmful.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Verify the diagnosis and confirm the existence of an outbreak. The usual first steps are to verify the diagnosis and confirm that the number of cases exceeds the expected baseline.

Why is "Conduct an analytical study of risk factors" not the answer?

Analytical studies come after descriptive epidemiology and hypotheses.

Why is "Publish a report in the media" not the answer?

Public communication follows verification.

Why is "Implement mass chemoprophylaxis" not the answer?

Chemoprophylaxis without confirmation could be unnecessary and harmful.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Epidemiology: outbreak investigation first step in PSM. Case definition, line listing, hypothesis generation and control measures follow.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Epidemiology: outbreak investigation first step?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.