Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which issue would a nurse have likely focused on during the initial implementation of the Healthy Communities and Cities initiative?

1. Reduction of pollutants released into the environment

2. Provision of fire and police protection

3. Creation of a coalition to address health disparities

4. Elimination of crime and violence from the community

The correct answer is: Creation of a coalition to address health disparities

The focus on creating a coalition to address health disparities aligns with the initial goals of the Healthy Communities and Cities initiative, which emphasizes collaboration among various stakeholders to promote community well-being and prevent health issues. This approach recognizes that health disparities often arise from social, economic, and environmental factors, and that engaging the community is crucial for identifying specific needs and fostering effective interventions. Coalitions are essential for pooling resources, sharing knowledge, and facilitating communication between diverse groups, including public health professionals, government agencies, community organizations, and residents. By forming these partnerships, the initiative can target the social determinants of health, ensuring more equitable access to resources and services that ultimately aim to improve the overall health of the community. The other options, while important in broader public health contexts, are not as directly aligned with the primary focus of the Healthy Communities and Cities initiative during its initial phase. For instance, while reduction of environmental pollutants and issues of crime are significant concerns, they are typically addressed subsequent to building coalitions that can bring together community stakeholder efforts to build a foundation for long-term health improvements.