Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What were early colonial health efforts in the United States primarily focused on?

1. Development of modern nursing schools

2. Collection of vital statistics and sanitation improvements

3. Creation of public housing

4. Establishing national healthcare policy

The correct answer is: Collection of vital statistics and sanitation improvements

Early colonial health efforts in the United States centered primarily on the collection of vital statistics and sanitation improvements. This focus stemmed from the understanding that many diseases spread due to poor sanitation and lack of accurate health data. Colonists experienced high rates of illness and mortality, which prompted them to prioritize efforts that could directly impact public health. Collecting vital statistics, such as birth and death rates, was crucial in identifying health trends and informing public health interventions. At the same time, sanitation improvements were necessary to combat the spread of infectious diseases, especially in densely populated areas. Efforts like waste disposal, clean water supply, and basic hygiene practices played a significant role in reducing health risks in communities. While other options, such as developing nursing schools, creating public housing, and establishing national healthcare policy, are important components of modern public health, they were not the primary focus during the early colonial period. The more immediate concerns related to survival and the health of communities drove the focus onto the basic needs of health data collection and sanitation.