Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What is the best approach to address mental health care needs in communities with high poverty levels?

1. Increase psychiatric hospital beds

2. Develop comprehensive community-based services

3. Offer limited educational health programs

4. Focus solely on medication management

The correct answer is: Develop comprehensive community-based services

The best approach to address mental health care needs in communities with high poverty levels is to develop comprehensive community-based services. This method focuses on integrating mental health care within the community, making it more accessible and tailored to the specific needs of the population. Community-based services can include a variety of support systems, such as counseling, crisis intervention, education, and outreach programs, which are essential for individuals who may not have the means to seek traditional psychiatric care. This approach not only addresses immediate mental health issues but also promotes long-term resilience and empowerment among community members. It recognizes that individuals living in poverty may face additional barriers to accessing care, including transportation issues, lack of insurance, and stigma. By providing services locally, communities can foster a supportive environment that encourages individuals to seek help and participate in their recovery process. In contrast, increasing psychiatric hospital beds would not effectively resolve the systemic issues faced by those in high-poverty areas. Offering limited educational health programs would not provide the comprehensive support necessary to meet complex mental health needs. Focusing solely on medication management could overlook the importance of therapy and social support, which are vital components of effective mental health care, particularly in community settings. Thus, developing comprehensive community-based services offers a holistic and sustainable way to address