Community Assessment
What is a windshield survey?
A direct observational method where nurses drive or walk through a community to note housing, services, environment, and overall conditions.
Why is evaluation important in health program planning?
It ensures continuous monitoring, promotes adaptation to community needs, and enhances outcomes in public health services.
What is the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP)?
A strategic plan developed by local health departments to improve community health outcomes.
How can nurses advocate for health policy changes?
By engaging in community outreach, participating in policy discussions, and supporting equitable health initiatives.
What role do vaccines play in public health?
Vaccines prevent the spread of infectious diseases, protect community health, and contribute to herd immunity.
Describe the types of communities in a community assessment.
Geographic communities (based on boundaries like city or neighborhood) and common-interest communities (based on shared culture, occupation, or health concern).
What is the significance of community involvement in program planning?
It ensures that programs are relevant and effective, builds trust, and promotes shared responsibility.
Why is resource allocation important for local public health departments?
It ensures that adequate funding and resources are available for effective health programming and services.
Name a source of financing for public health initiatives.
Federal, state, and local government funding, grants, or private donations.
What is the role of technology in modern public health practices?
Technology aids in data collection, health communication, telehealth services, and health education.
What are the key components of a community assessment?
Population demographics, health status indicators, social and economic conditions, physical environment, and available health services.
Explain the purpose of program planning in public health.
Answer: To translate assessment data into action, prioritize community needs, and develop measurable goals and objectives.
What is the importance of stakeholder engagement in public health planning?
It builds trust and ensures the relevance of health programs by involving those affected.
Identify a challenge facing public health policy development.
Limited funding or resources for public health initiatives.
How do social determinants of health affect community health outcomes?
They influence access to resources, healthcare, education, and overall quality of life, leading to health disparities.
Name two types of data collection methods used in community assessments.
Quantitative methods (e.g., census data, vital statistics) and qualitative methods (e.g., key informant interviews, focus groups).
What are the components of a logic model?
Inputs (resources), Activities (interventions), Outputs (measurable deliverables), Outcomes (short-/intermediate-term changes), and Impact (long-term population-level health effects).
Name one essential public health service provided by local health departments.
Services such as immunizations, disease prevention education, and emergency preparedness.
How do policies differ from laws in public health?
Policies provide guidance and set priorities, while laws are legally binding rules enforced through the judicial system.
What is the impact of climate change on public health?
Climate change can lead to increased respiratory diseases, heat-related illnesses, and food and waterborne diseases.
What is the purpose of a community assessment?
To systematically identify health needs, resources, and strengths in order to plan effective interventions.
What are SMART objectives in health program planning?
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound objectives that guide program development.
What role do local public health departments play in community health?
They plan, implement, and evaluate programs addressing local health needs.
Define health policy and provide an example.
Authoritative decisions or principles intended to influence health-related actions and outcomes; for example, legislation on tobacco control.
What are some emerging public health challenges in the 21st century?
Challenges include pandemics, antibiotic resistance, mental health crises, and health disparities.