NR 442 Case Study 04-Community Assessment Part 1

NR 442 Case Study 04-Community Assessment Part 1

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-442 Community Health Nursing

Prof. Name:

Date

Case Study: Community Assessment Part 1

Introduction

As a public health nurse, you have been approached by the city manager to perform a community assessment to support the city council’s updated six-year strategic plan. This assessment is an opportunity to identify the community’s strengths and weaknesses and to recommend strategies for improving the overall health and wellness of the population. The process begins with gathering preliminary information about the community, followed by conducting a windshield survey and engaging key informants to collect qualitative and quantitative data.

Community Overview

The city has a population of 22,791, with 52.2% female and 47.8% male residents. Age demographics show 34.8% under 18, 61.2% between 19-64, and 4% over 65. Ethnic composition includes Caucasians (56.8%), African Americans (9%), Hispanics (23.4%), and others (10.8%). The area boasts a high livability score (86), with a low crime rate, low cost of living, temperate weather, and access to local amenities.

Key industries include computer technology manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors like public education, health care, and farming. Economic indicators reveal a per capita income of $73,977, a poverty rate of 7.4%, and an unemployment rate of 3.4%. Educational infrastructure consists of public schools, private institutions, and higher education centers, with 59.6% of the population having a high school diploma and 41.4% holding a college degree.

Recreational opportunities range from sports and outdoor activities to festivals and cultural events. Health care facilities include urgent care clinics, pediatric services, and rehabilitation centers. The city’s infrastructure supports community mobility through bus and taxi services, although challenges like railroad tracks near schools hinder emergency response times.

Key Findings and Strategic Recommendations

Public Health Nurse Role in Community Assessment

Public health nurses play a critical role in identifying community needs and promoting health. Their responsibilities include:

1. Conducting surveys and interviews to gather data.
2. Collaborating with stakeholders to address community challenges.
3. Advocating for policies that enhance access to health care and reduce health disparities.

Implications for Community Health

Barriers like the railroad tracks highlight the need for infrastructural improvements to ensure equitable access to emergency services. Moreover, addressing social determinants of health—such as income, education, and environment—can significantly improve population outcomes. Public health policies should focus on sustainable growth while mitigating environmental risks.

References

Cui, E. R., Beja-Glasser, A., Fernandez, A. R., Grover, J. M., Mann, N. C., & Patel, M. D. (2019). Emergency medical services time intervals for acute chest pain in the United States, 2015–2016. Prehospital Emergency Care, 24(4), 557–565. https://doi.org/10.1080/10903127.2019.1676346

Edelman, C. L., & Kudzma, E. C. (2018). Health promotion throughout the life span. Elsevier.

Stanhope, M., & Lancaster, J. (2019). Foundations for population health in community/public health nursing. Elsevier.

NR 442 Case Study 04-Community Assessment Part 1

Nies, M. A., & McEwen, M. (2018). Community/public health nursing: Promoting the health of populations. Elsevier.