Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Why is community-based care increasingly emphasized in public health?

1. It reduces the need for emergency departments.

2. It shifts the focus from acute care to prevention and wellness.

3. It allows for more rapid response to infectious diseases.

4. It provides more funding for healthcare providers.

The correct answer is: It shifts the focus from acute care to prevention and wellness.

The primary reason community-based care is increasingly emphasized in public health is due to its focus on shifting from acute care to prevention and wellness. This approach recognizes that many health issues can be effectively managed and even prevented in community settings before they escalate into more serious conditions that require emergency or hospital care. By prioritizing prevention and wellness, community-based care fosters health promotion initiatives, educating the public on healthy lifestyles, and engaging patients in managing their health. This proactive stance not only addresses the root causes of health issues but also empowers communities, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced reliance on acute care services. In contrast, while reducing the need for emergency departments is beneficial, it is ultimately a result of effective community-based care rather than the primary reason for its emphasis. Rapid response to infectious diseases is also significant but is just one aspect of a broader public health strategy. Finally, while funding is important, the emphasis on community-based care specifically stems from the desire to improve population health through prevention and wellness rather than financial incentives for healthcare providers.