Ace the 2026 Public Health Nursing Exam – Heal, Lead, and Succeed!

The primary purpose of a windshield survey in public health nursing is to observe and assess community characteristics. This method allows nurses and public health professionals to visually gather information about a community’s infrastructure, resources, needs, and overall environment as they drive through and take note of specific indicators.

Windshield surveys provide valuable insights into aspects such as housing quality, presence of parks and recreational facilities, availability of healthcare services, and overall community dynamics. This observational approach is essential for understanding the context in which health issues may arise and for identifying areas that may require intervention or support.

The focus on direct observation distinguishes this method from others that rely heavily on quantitative data collection, community engagement, or the analysis of existing data. By capturing the lived environment of a community, windshield surveys enhance the understanding of public health challenges and facilitate planning for future health initiatives.