Which of the following is a function of a population health nurse?

Choice A Reason:
The need for social support to abstain from smoking is an important factor in tobacco cessation. Social support can significantly influence an individual's ability to quit smoking by providing encouragement and accountability. However, according to the Health Belief Model, the focus is more on perceived benefits and barriers, perceived severity, and perceived susceptibility. While social support is crucial, it is not the primary focus of the Health Belief Model in this context.

Choice B Reason:
The benefits of not smoking when engaging in sports and other activities is a key aspect of the Health Belief Model. This model emphasizes the importance of perceived benefits in motivating behavior change. Highlighting the positive outcomes of not smoking, such as improved athletic performance and better overall health, can effectively encourage high school students to avoid tobacco use. This approach aligns with the model's focus on perceived benefits as a motivator for behavior change.

Choice C Reason:
The school's no smoking policy is an important regulatory measure to prevent tobacco use among students. However, the Health Belief Model focuses more on individual perceptions and motivations rather than institutional policies. While the policy is essential for creating a smoke-free environment, it does not directly address the personal beliefs and attitudes that the Health Belief Model targets.

Choice D Reason:
The local town ordinance regarding smoking bans in certain public spaces is another regulatory approach to control tobacco use. Similar to the school's no smoking policy, this ordinance is important for public health but does not align directly with the Health Belief Model. The model is more concerned with individual perceptions of risk and benefit, rather than external regulations.

Choice A Reason:
Considering the individual characteristics first focuses on personal attributes such as age, gender, genetics, and personal health behaviors. While these factors are important, the ecological model emphasizes the broader context in which individuals live. Starting with individual characteristics may overlook the larger environmental and social influences that significantly impact health outcomes.

Choice B Reason:
Close social circles, including family, friends, and immediate social networks, play a crucial role in shaping health behaviors and providing support. These relationships can influence lifestyle choices, stress levels, and access to resources. However, focusing on close social circles first may not capture the broader environmental and societal factors that also affect health.

Choice C Reason:
Social and cultural factors encompass the norms, values, and practices of the community. These factors influence health behaviors, access to healthcare, and overall well-being. While social and cultural factors are vital, they are part of a larger context that includes the physical environment. Addressing these factors without considering the environment may provide an incomplete picture of the community's health.

Choice D Reason:
The environment includes the physical, social, and economic conditions in which people live. This encompasses factors such as housing quality, access to green spaces, pollution levels, and availability of healthcare services. The environment sets the stage for individual and community health by influencing exposure to risks and access to resources. Starting with the environment provides a comprehensive understanding of the context in which individuals and communities operate, making it the most appropriate starting point for an ecological assessment.