Which level of preventive care involves retraining and maximizing remaining capacities?

• A. Primary
• B. Secondary
• C. Tertiary
• D. Quaternary

Answer: (C)

Retraining and maximizing remaining capacities is about restoring function after illness or injury to reduce disability and improve independence. That focus on rehabilitation and minimizing ongoing impairment fits tertiary prevention, which aims to lessen the impact of a disease once it has already occurred. For example, after a stroke, physical and occupational therapy to relearn movement and daily skills helps the patient regain function and prevent further decline.

Primary prevention aims to prevent disease from happening (like vaccines). Secondary prevention involves early detection to prevent progression (like screenings). Quaternary prevention is about avoiding overmedicalization and unnecessary interventions.