Which of the following is an underlying principle of tertiary prevention?

Tertiary prevention focuses on managing and improving the quality of life for individuals who are already affected by a disease or health condition. The primary aim is to reduce the impact of the disease, enhance functioning, and maintain or improve the individual's health status. This includes the provision of immediate treatment and ongoing management for existing health issues to prevent further complications and disability.

For example, in the case of a patient with diabetes, tertiary prevention would involve not just monitoring blood sugar levels but also managing any related complications such as neuropathy or retinopathy, thereby helping the patient maintain a better quality of life. It emphasizes medical intervention and rehabilitation rather than prevention, which distinguishes it from primary and secondary prevention strategies.