DISASTER PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT CASE STUDY
In 2018, citizens of the United States learned of a water crisis in Flint, Michigan that was impacting the health
of residents connected to the city’s water supply (Denchack, 2018). This case study provides the opportunity
for learners to apply the knowledge learned in this course to demonstrate clinical judgment used in disaster
preparedness planning and response in a similar situation.
The Flint Water Crisis
Before beginning the case study, take a moment to explore these resources:
Flint Water Crisis Summary (Denchack, 2018)
 Lead Poisoning (Mayo Clinic, n.d.)
Public health data in three zip codes of a mid-sized rural city reveals a 65% increase in new cases of skin
rashes. There are also higher than expected rates of unexplained weight loss, premature births,
developmental delays, learning difficulties, hypertension, memory impairment, abdominal pain, and
miscarriages. Nurses working in a private community health organization are collaborating with the public
health department to understand the noted health trend.
Which four assessment findings require priority follow-up? Select all that apply.
 Unexplained weight loss
 Learning difficulties
 Developmental delays
 Premature births
 Miscarriages
 Increase in skin rashes
 Abdominal pain
 Newly diagnosed hypertension