Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

What is an example of a community risk factor that a home health care nurse might assess?

1. A community member finds out they are genetically predisposed to develop arthritis

2. An older adult is at risk for falls in the home due to clutter in hallways and on stairs

3. Children kept inside on sunny days because lack of recreational opportunities

4. A child is born with severe intellectual disability

The correct answer is: Children kept inside on sunny days because lack of recreational opportunities

The selected answer highlights a critical community risk factor that a home health care nurse might assess. When children are kept indoors on sunny days due to a lack of recreational opportunities, it signifies environmental and social barriers that can adversely affect their physical and mental development. Limited outdoor activity can lead to sedentary behavior, which is associated with various health issues such as obesity, social isolation, and reduced emotional well-being. By assessing this risk factor, the nurse can address broader determinants of health in the community, advocating for improved access to recreational facilities or programs that promote active lifestyles for children. This understanding aligns with the role of community health assessments, where the influence of social, environmental, and economic factors on health is evaluated. In contrast, the other scenarios presented involve individual health risks or genetic predispositions, which, while important, do not constitute community-level risk factors in the same way. These factors are more focused on personal health rather than the community structures that can influence the health outcomes of its members.