What assessment parameters are collected during a windshield survey by public health nurses?

During a windshield survey, public health nurses gather critical information regarding the physical environment and health services of a community. This assessment approach involves observing different aspects of the community from a vehicle, allowing health professionals to collect data on the infrastructure, such as housing conditions, availability of parks, accessibility of healthcare facilities, and the presence of environmental hazards.

By focusing on the physical environment, nurses can identify areas that may pose health risks or require intervention, such as neighborhoods lacking appropriate sanitation or access to nutritious food. Additionally, evaluating health services provides insight into the availability and quality of healthcare resources in the community, which is essential for planning and implementing public health initiatives.

While the other options—community economic conditions, emergency response plans, and local business activities—are important components of a comprehensive community assessment, they are not the primary focus of a windshield survey conducted by public health nurses. Instead, the emphasis is on immediate visual data regarding health determinants tied to the environment and healthcare access within the community. This targeted approach is crucial for identifying pressing public health needs and resources effectively.