Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What approach should a nurse adopt when planning community health interventions?

1. A top-down approach with experts planning

2. A bottom-up approach with multi-sectoral planning

3. A top-down approach with rational-empirical methods

4. A bottom-up approach emphasizing expert facilitation

The correct answer is: A bottom-up approach with multi-sectoral planning

A bottom-up approach with multi-sectoral planning is the most effective strategy for planning community health interventions because it actively engages the community members and stakeholders in the process. This approach ensures that the specific needs, strengths, and insights of the community are identified and prioritized, leading to more relevant and impactful interventions. By incorporating multi-sectoral planning, the nurse acknowledges that health outcomes are influenced by a variety of factors beyond the healthcare system, including economic, social, and environmental determinants. Collaborating with various sectors such as education, housing, and transportation allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the community's needs and fosters shared ownership of health initiatives. This collective involvement leads to sustainable solutions tailored to the unique context of the community. Engaging individuals at various levels—from community members to local organizations—helps build trust and ensures that interventions are culturally appropriate and have the community's support. Consequently, community health programs developed through this inclusive and participatory process are more likely to succeed and yield lasting improvements in health outcomes.