Discussion: Community Characteristics

The community assessment process typically begins with an exploration of the community’s history and geographic characteristics. The community health nurse then thinks critically about this information to form some conclusions about how the community’s characteristics might impact the delivery of nursing services within the community.

Directions: In the discussion #2 forum, create a new discussion thread and address the following questions. Keep in mind that you are being asked to think critically about your community. Focus on providing insightful analysis. Support with evidence/data.

1) Choose a geopolitical community to assess (any city, town, county, etc. within the United States). Briefly discuss the historical development of this community, including how it has developed over time in terms of industry and major sources of work and any periods of conflict or discrimination, etc. Sources of information might include library archives, local histories, the community’s website, or interviews with community leaders/activists.

2) Briefly discuss the community’s geographic characteristics, including size in square miles, major transportation avenues (rivers, highways, railroads, sidewalks, etc.), general topography and landscape (open spaces/greenery, flat or mountainous, etc.), and environmental factors (are pollutants an issue).