Which of the following is a key component of the IMCI strategy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Integrated case management of childhood illnesses. This is a key component of the IMCI (Integrated Management of Childhood Illness) strategy, which focuses on a holistic approach to managing common childhood illnesses at the primary healthcare level. IMCI includes assessing and classifying sick children, providing appropriate treatments, counseling caregivers, and ensuring follow-up care. This strategy aims to reduce childhood morbidity and mortality by improving the quality of care provided to children.
Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not directly align with the key component of the IMCI strategy. Promoting hospital-based care (A) may not be feasible or sustainable in resource-limited settings where primary healthcare is crucial. Providing routine immunizations (B) is important but is not the primary focus of the IMCI strategy. Enhancing maternal nutrition (C) is essential for maternal and child health but is not a key component of the IMCI strategy, which specifically targets childhood illnesses.