Ambulatory Care Nurse Certification Practice Exam

The health belief model is most accurately represented in the scenario where a parent refuses vaccinations based on the belief that they cause autism. This model emphasizes individual beliefs and attitudes that influence health-related behaviors. In this case, the parent's decision is driven by their perception of the risks associated with vaccinations and their personal concern for their child's health.

The health belief model involves several key components, including perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers. The parent's belief that vaccines may lead to autism highlights perceived barriers and possible concerns about the severity of this condition, which ultimately guide their decision to forgo vaccinations. This reflects how personal beliefs about health risks and benefits prominently shape health behaviors.

In contrast, the other models focus on different aspects: the clinical model centers around medical interventions, the holistic model considers the whole person and their environment, and the total wellness model emphasizes a broader view of health that includes physical, mental, and social well-being. These do not directly address the parents' specific beliefs regarding the safety of vaccinations, making the health belief model the most fitting representation in this case.