When assessing a community to determine its health needs, which data would be most useful?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Morbidity and mortality data. This data provides direct information on the health status of the community by indicating the prevalence of diseases and deaths. It helps identify major health issues, prioritize interventions, and allocate resources effectively. Demographic data (A) provides information on population characteristics but does not directly reflect health needs. Health behavior data (B) offers insights into lifestyle choices but may not capture underlying health conditions. Environmental data (C) focuses on external factors impacting health, which are important but not as direct in indicating community health needs as morbidity and mortality data.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Socioeconomic status. Socioeconomic status influences access to healthcare, environmental quality, and genetic predisposition. Low socioeconomic status is linked to poorer health outcomes due to limited access to healthcare services, exposure to environmental hazards, and unhealthy lifestyle factors. It also impacts education, employment, and social support, all of which are crucial for community health. Access to healthcare services (A) is important but is influenced by socioeconomic status. Environmental quality (C) and genetic predisposition (D) play a role, but socioeconomic status has a broader impact on overall community health.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: To achieve health equity and eliminate health disparities. This is the goal of Healthy People 2020 as it aims to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their highest level of health. Health equity involves providing opportunities for all individuals to reach their full health potential, regardless of their social or economic status. By eliminating health disparities, the goal is to address the root causes of health inequities and promote fairness in health outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses solely on improving the quality and years of healthy life without addressing disparities. Choice B is incorrect as it specifically mentions reducing health disparities but does not mention achieving health equity. Choice C is incorrect as it emphasizes promoting healthy behaviors but does not encompass the broader goal of health equity and eliminating disparities.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because advocating for health policy changes is a key role of community health nurses in promoting health at a population level. They work to influence policies that address social determinants of health and improve overall community well-being. Providing direct care (B) is more aligned with clinical nursing roles. Educating the community (C) is important but not the primary role of a community health nurse. Conducting research (D) may inform practice but is not the primary function of promoting health in the community.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, screening for early signs of disease. Secondary prevention focuses on early detection and treatment of a disease to prevent its progression. Screening helps identify diseases in their early stages, enabling timely intervention to prevent further complications. Providing rehabilitation services (B) is part of tertiary prevention for individuals already diagnosed with a disease. Administering medications (C) is a treatment approach, not specifically focused on prevention. Providing health education (D) is more aligned with primary prevention by promoting healthy behaviors to prevent the onset of diseases.