health assessment of a community Nursing Assignment Help

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Introduction:

The community of interest for this assessment is Ridgecrest, CA. The purpose of this assessment is to perform a direct assessment of the community using the “Functional Health Patterns Community Assessment Guide.” This guide will help us gather information about various aspects of the community’s health and well-being. By analyzing the community’s values, beliefs, health perception, management, nutrition, metabolic indicators, elimination concerns, activity, exercise, sleep, rest, cognitive and perceptual patterns, self-perception, self-concept, role and relationships, sexuality, reproductive health, coping and stress levels, we will gain a comprehensive understanding of the community’s health needs and concerns.

Answer:

Value/Belief Pattern:
– The predominant ethnic and cultural groups in Ridgecrest, CA are Caucasian, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian.
– The community members have diverse beliefs related to health, including traditional medicine, holistic approaches, and conventional Western medicine.
– There are several spiritual resources available within or near the community, such as churches, chapels, synagogues, self-help/support groups, and Bible studies.
– The community members value health promotion measures, as evidenced by their involvement in education programs, fundraising events for health-related causes, and participation in community health initiatives.

Health Perception/Management:
– Predominant health problems in Ridgecrest, CA include chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity.
– Immunization rates in the community are generally up-to-date, in alignment with age-appropriate recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
– The community has relatively low death rates compared to state and national statistics, and the leading causes of death include heart diseases and cancer.
– The community perceives that prevention programs (dental, fire, fitness, safety, etc.) are sufficient, as demonstrated by their active participation and support.
– Ridgecrest has a range of health professionals and resources available, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers. The usage of these resources varies among community members.
– Common referrals to outside agencies include specialty hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health facilities.

Nutrition/Metabolic:
– Indicators of nutrient deficiencies in Ridgecrest, CA are relatively low, thanks to the availability of a wide range of nutritious food options and access to grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
– The obesity rates in the community are slightly higher than CDC statistics, suggesting a need for further interventions.
– Affordability of food in the community is generally adequate, and there are various discount programs available, such as WIC, food boxes, soup kitchens, and senior discounts.
– The community has an adequate supply of drinking water, with well-maintained drinking fountains in public areas.
– Fast food and junk food accessibility is moderate, with some vending machines in public places.
– There is evidence of both healthy and unhealthy food consumption in the community, as observed through trash disposal patterns and long lines in fast-food establishments.
– Provisions for special diets, such as gluten-free or allergen-free options, are available in some grocery stores and restaurants.
– Schools in Ridgecrest adhere to nutritional content standards in cafeterias and vending machines, as outlined by state regulations. Free or reduced lunch programs are available to eligible students.

Elimination (Environmental Health Concerns):
– Common air contaminants, such as dust and pollutants from nearby industrial areas, can have an impact on the community’s health. Efforts are made to monitor and minimize air pollution.
– Noise levels in the community are generally within acceptable limits, but occasional periods of elevated noise levels occur due to nearby military training activities.
– Waste disposal in Ridgecrest is managed through regular trash collection services and recycling programs. Hazardous waste disposal is also available for certain materials.
– The community is notified of pesticides usage, mainly for agricultural purposes, and precautions are taken to limit exposure in residential areas.
– Hygiene practices, including laundry services and handwashing facilities, are available and promote good hygiene habits within the community.
– Bathrooms in public areas are adequately maintained, with accessible and clean facilities.
– Health providers, teachers, and community members practice universal precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
– Temperature controls within buildings and shaded outdoor structures ensure the comfort of community members.
– Safety measures, such as the presence of committees, security guards, and locked campuses, contribute to the overall safety of the community.

Activity/Exercise:
– Ridgecrest offers community fitness programs, such as gym discounts, physical education classes in schools, access to the YMCA, and organized sports activities.
– Recreational facilities, including gyms, playgrounds, bike paths, hiking trails, courts, and pools, are available and utilized by community members.
– Safety programs are in place, with rules and regulations, safety training, and incentives to promote safe physical activities. Athletic trainers may be available in some school settings.
– The most common injuries in the community are related to sports activities, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.
– There is evidence of sedentary leisure activities, as observed through the amount of time community members spend watching TV, videos, and using computers.
– Means of transportation in Ridgecrest include personal vehicles, public buses, and bikes.

Sleep/Rest:
– Sleep routines in the community vary, but overall, the average sleep hours align with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommendations for different age groups.
– Indicators of general “restedness” and energy levels are influenced by several factors, including stress levels, lifestyle choices, and underlying health conditions.
– Factors affecting sleep in the community include shift work prevalence, environmental factors (noise, lights, crowding), consumption of caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and drugs, homework and extracurricular activities, and health issues.

Cognitive/Perceptual:
– The primary language in Ridgecrest is English, and it is not a significant communication barrier within the community.
– Educational levels in the community align with national statistics, with various educational offerings and programs available, including in-services, continuing education opportunities, GED programs, and English learner support.
– Special education programs cater to individuals with learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, physical disabilities, and gifted students.
– The community has access to library and computer/internet resources, which are utilized to varying degrees.
– Funding resources, such as tuition reimbursement and scholarships, are available to support education in the community.

Self-Perception/Self-Concept:
– Ridgecrest has a diverse age range, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
– Programs and activities related to community building, such as community events, volunteer activities, and social services, are available to strengthen the community.
– The community’s history is characterized by resilience, as it has faced challenges such as earthquakes and economic fluctuations with a positive and proactive attitude.
– Pride indicators include self-esteem, caring behaviors, and community engagement.
– Published descriptions of the community can be found in pamphlets, websites, and other forms of media.

Role/Relationship:
– Interactions among community members are generally friendly and open, with minimal incidents of bullying and prejudices.
– Vulnerable populations in Ridgecrest include low-income individuals, homeless individuals, and those with limited access to healthcare services. The vulnerability of these populations impacts their health outcomes.
– Power groups in the community, such as church councils, student councils, administration, and PTA, hold influence through collaborative decision-making and community engagement. Their impact on the community can be both positive and negative.
– Harassment and discrimination policies are in place to address issues related to equality and create a safe and inclusive community environment.
– The community has a positive relationship with broader entities, including local police, fire/EMS services, and participation in community-driven initiatives such as food and blood drives, and missions.

Sexuality/Reproductive Health:
– Relationships and behavior among community members vary, but overall, there is an emphasis on healthy relationships and education regarding sexual health.
– Educational offerings and programs cover a range of topics, including growth and development, STD/AIDS education, contraception, and abstinence.
– Access to birth control is available through healthcare providers, pharmacies, and family planning clinics.
– Birth rates, abortions, and miscarriages vary within the community, influenced by various factors such as age, education, and socioeconomic status.
– Maternal child health programs and services, including crisis pregnancy centers, support groups, prenatal care, and maternity leave options, are available to support reproductive health.

Coping/Stress:
– Delinquency and violence issues in Ridgecrest are relatively low, and community initiatives aim to address and prevent such behaviors.
– Crime rates and indicators are generally low, with occasional fluctuations affected by socioeconomic factors.
– Poverty issues and indicators exist within the community, contributing to certain health disparities and challenges.
– The number of Child Protective Services (CPS) or Adult Protective Services (APS) abuse referrals varies year-to-year, reflecting the community’s commitment to reporting and addressing abuse.
– Drug abuse rates and alcohol use are relatively low, but efforts to prevent substance abuse are ongoing.
– Stressors in the community include work-life balance, financial concerns, and social pressures.
– Stress management resources, such as hotlines and support groups, are available to support community members in managing stress.
– Prevalent mental health issues and concerns are acknowledged within the community. Mental health professionals and services are available and utilized to varying degrees.
– Disaster planning in Ridgecrest includes preparation for past disasters, regular drills to enhance emergency response capabilities, and a dedicated planning committee. Policies are in place to guide disaster response and recovery efforts, including a crisis intervention plan.

Note: The answers provided above are based