Outbreak investigation: 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.

Try it

PSM · Outbreak investigation

Sample item

What is an early step in investigating a suspected outbreak?

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

The answer and the reasoning

D. Verify the diagnosis and confirm that case numbers exceed expected levels

Outbreak investigation begins by confirming that an excess of disease exists and verifying the diagnosis. A clear case definition and systematic data collection then guide control measures.

Option by option

  • A. Ignore laboratory information

    Laboratory information can be crucial for confirming etiology.

  • B. Publish results before collecting data

    Publication follows investigation and analysis.

  • C. Start a randomized trial immediately

    Randomized trials are not the first step in an acute field investigation.

  • D. Verify the diagnosis and confirm that case numbers exceed expected levels (correct)

    Correct. Confirmation prevents unnecessary or misdirected responses.

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.

More PSM questions

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is D, Verify the diagnosis and confirm that case numbers exceed expected levels. Outbreak investigation begins by confirming that an excess of disease exists and verifying the diagnosis.

Why is "Ignore laboratory information" not the answer?

Laboratory information can be crucial for confirming etiology.

Why is "Publish results before collecting data" not the answer?

Publication follows investigation and analysis.

Why is "Start a randomized trial immediately" not the answer?

Randomized trials are not the first step in an acute field investigation.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Outbreak investigation in PSM. A clear case definition and systematic data collection then guide control measures.

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 Outbreak investigation?

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.