NR 443 Week 1 Discussion

NR 443 Week 1 Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

NR-443 RN Community Health Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Discussion Question

Numerous factors contribute to an individual’s health status, particularly social factors and determinants. This week’s focus is on understanding these social determinants and their impact on health. As part of this exploration, it’s essential to gather data from your local community.

Community Data Collection

To begin, access the U.S. Census Bureau website at https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/. Here’s a structured approach for data collection:

1. Input your location: Enter your zip code, city, or county to obtain specific demographic information. Aim for the most granular data available (city, township, or county).
2. Identify the following metrics:
   • Total population
   • Median income
   • Percentage or number of individuals living in poverty

Grocery Prices

Next, visit a local grocery store, or utilize a flyer or app to gather price information for the following items (please indicate if items are organic):

• 1 gallon of milk
• 1 loaf of bread
• 1 bag of apples (include price per pound)
• 1 bag of carrots
• 1 large container of yogurt
• 1 2-liter bottle of soda
• 1 bag of chips
• 1 package of cookies

Discussion Prompts

With the data collected, consider the following discussion prompts:

• Paragraph 1: Identify and discuss a social factor that may influence grocery purchases in your community, providing specific details such as location, availability, and poverty levels.

• Paragraph 2: Discuss another social factor impacting grocery purchasing decisions in your community, again focusing on specific details related to location and socioeconomic factors.

• Paragraph 3: Explain how a community health nurse (CHN) could utilize one of the 17 intervention categories from the Public Health Intervention Wheel to address issues related to food security (Nies & McEwen, 2019).

Data Analysis

Community Profile

Artesia, California, is my community of residence. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population is 16,601, with a poverty rate of only 8.7%. The average household income is $67,647. Although Norwalk, California, the neighboring city where I grew up, is only a few miles away, significant differences exist between the two communities. Norwalk features a mix of multi-family homes and socioeconomic statuses ranging from middle-class to lower-income, while Artesia primarily comprises single-family, middle-income residences. These variances illustrate how social determinants can influence health outcomes across neighboring areas.

Grocery Store Comparison

I conducted a price comparison at two grocery stores: 99 Ranch (an Asian grocery store) and Stater Bros. I found that 99 Ranch typically has higher prices for items such as milk and yogurt compared to Stater Bros. This pricing discrepancy may stem from 99 Ranch’s focus on a specific demographic that may not frequently purchase these items, leading the store to adjust prices accordingly. Conversely, Stater Bros. offers a broader range of commonly used items, appealing to a diverse customer base. Personally, I shop at both stores; I often visit Stater Bros. for essential items and 99 Ranch for specific ingredients to prepare Filipino or Cambodian dishes.

Market Stocking and Health Awareness

Grocery stores tend to tailor their inventories to align with the dietary preferences of their customer base. For instance, a Costco in Long Beach might emphasize keto or low-carb options, while a Costco in Norwalk would focus more on Hispanic food items. Stores typically position products based on market demand to optimize sales. In my community of Artesia, the limited availability of fast-food restaurants suggests that residents may lean toward healthier choices, which, in turn, can influence grocery store offerings. To enhance community health, it is vital to conduct surveillance and health event investigations. Given the availability of nutritious options in Artesia, I am keen to monitor and assess the community’s health needs, including identifying potential risks and formulating control measures to address them.

References

Census Bureau QuickFacts: United States. (2021). U.S. Census Bureau. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045219

NR 443 Week 1 Discussion

Nies, M. A., & McEwen, M. (2019). Public health interventions: Applications for public health nursing. Minnesota Department of Health. https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/practice/research/phncouncil/docs/PHInterventions.pdf