This document provides a community assessment of Saratoga Springs, New York focusing on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the role of community health nurses. It includes a demographic profile of the city, noting a population of 26,727 with 48.28% male and 51.72% female. Heart disease is the leading cause of death. The document describes the community using windshield surveys and key informant interviews. It analyzes epidemiological data on sudden cardiac arrest and discusses the role of community health nurses in providing CPR education and training to increase awareness of its importance. The goal is to promote heart health through primary prevention methods in the community.
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Community Assessment Highlights Importance of CPR Training
1. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 1
A Community Heath Nurses Role With Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
David Theobald-RN
Empire State College
2. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 2
Table of Contents
Introduction………………………………………………………………………5
Epidemiology……………………………………………………………………..5
Importance of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)……………………………5
Population…………………………………………………………….…… .……5
Community Health Nursing Model………………………………………………5
Community Health Nurses Role ……...…………………………………………..5
Windshield Community Overview…………………………………………….….5
Education…………. ……………………………………………………………...6
Community Census…………………………………………………………….…6
Employment survey………………………..……………………………………..7
Employers…………………………………………………………………………7
Type of Government……………..…………………………………………….…8
Safety……………….... …………………………………………………………8
Hospitals…………………………...…………………………………………….9
Recreation……………………………………………………………………….9
Media……………………………………………………………………………9
Windshield Map boundaries……..……………….……………………………10
History….…………………….…………………………………………….….10
Population……….…………………………………………………………….12
Housing………………….……………………………………………………..12
3. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 3
Signs of Decay…………….…………………………………………………….……....13
Open Spaces……………….………………..………………………………………..14-15
Transportation…………………………………………………….……………………...16
Health Care services………..…………………………………………………..…….17-18
Crime…………………..………………..……………………………………………….19
Economics………………………………………..……………………………….…......19
Challenges..…………………………….…………………………………….……….…20
Strengths…….....……..……………….………………………………………….…..20-21
Religion………………………………………………………………………………….22
Windshield Conclusion……………………………………………………………….....23
Key Informant Interviews………………………………………………………...…24-30
Epidemiologyof Sudden Cardiac Arrest.……………………………………………30-31
Population aggregate and developmental stage............................................................31-32
Political, Cultural, Economic and laws ……………………………………………...33-34
Community Resource: Adirondack Health & Wellness…………………………………35
Community Health Nursing Role………………………….……………………….……35
Primary Prevention Method……………………………………………………….…….36
Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………37
References………………………………………………………………………………38
4. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 4
1. Introduction
Purpose
A. The purpose of this community assessment paper is to increase awareness of the
importance of Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s) and Cardiopulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR) training in the City of Saratoga Springs New York.
Population Aggregate/ Statistics
B. Population Aggregate- Saratoga Springs has population of 26,727 people. The
community is involved with youth sports teams. Statistic ―Heart disease is the leading
cause of death for both men and women. More than half of the deaths due to heart
disease in 2009 were in men. About600,000 Americans die from heart disease each
year—that’s 1 in every 4 deaths. Coronary heart disease is the most common type of
heart disease, killing more than 385,000 people annually‖(CDC 2012 Web).
Community Health Nursing Model
D. For this Project we will be using the Interventions Wheel Model. ―The model consists
of 17 identified community health nursing interventions that cross over three levels of
population-based practice: individual-focused, community-focused, and systems-focused
practice. Individual-level interventions are focused on change in individual health status,
knowledge, or skills (Clark, 2008 p 75).
5. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 5
Community Health Nurse Role
E. Community Health Nurse Role in promoting heart health and implementing CPR and
AED programs.
Population by Gender
Male 12,837 48.28% 12,433
Female 13,749 51.72% 13,753
Population by Age
Persons 0 to 4 years 1,087 4.09% 1,395
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
B. Demographics based on 2010 US Census Bureau Total 26,586
Community Overview
A. Saratoga Springs NY is small city rich with history and culture. There are community
sports programs and recreation leagues in the community were identified as needing life
saving AED’s.
6. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 6
Persons 5 to 17 years 3,430 12.90% 3,672
Persons 18 to 64 years 17,881 67.26% 17,380
Persons 65 years and over 4,188 15.75% 3,739
Education Retrieved from National Center for Educational Statistics
Population 25 years and over 17,127 100.0%
Less than 9th grade 588 3.4%
9th to 12th grade, no diploma 1,297 7.6%
High school graduate (includes equivalency) 4,011 23.4%
Some college, no degree 3,009 17.6%
Associate degree 1,557 9.1%
Bachelor's degree 3,595 21.0%
Graduate or professional degree 3,070 17.9
7. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 7
D. Ethnicity 2010 Census
Population by Race
American Indian and Alaska native alone 55 0.21% 63
Asian alone 521 1.96% 271
Black or African American alone 701 2.64% 815
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific native alone 7 0.03% 8
Some other race alone 170 0.64% 168
Two or more races 589 2.22% 368
White alone 24,543 92.32% 24,493
E. Poverty Level, Unemployment ratethe data is based upon 2010 estimates.
Saratoga Springs employment information
Index Saratoga Springs New York
Income per capita $31,762 $31,957
Median household income $54,607 $67,635
Median household income owner occupied $74,316 $79,472
Median household income renter occupied $32,481 $41,550
8. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 8
Median earnings male $35,233 $45,665
Median earnings female $19,281 $26,443
Unemployment rate (2000) 4.3% 4.5%
Unemployment rate (2010) n/a 8.2%
Unemployment rate (2012) n/a 8.0%
Poverty level 8.8% 8.8%
Employers
Many people that live in Saratoga Springs either work for small businesses or commute
to larger employers in out lying areas. Below are some of the largest employers in
Saratoga Springs NY.
1000+ employees Town # of employees
Stewart's Ice Cream Co. Saratoga Springs 1550
500-999 employees
Saratoga Springs City School District Saratoga Springs 988
Quad Graphics, Inc. Saratoga Springs 825
Saratoga Hospital Saratoga Springs 823
Type of Government For The City Of Saratoga Springs NY
Commission Form:
The Saratoga Springs charter specifies a commission form of city government. In the
news there have been efforts to amend the charter. The charter change proposal will
appear on the ballot of the November 2012 election.
9. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 9
Safety Fire, Police
―The Saratoga Springs Fire Department is dedicated to the protection of life, property and
the environment for those who live, work, or visit our community. We will accomplish
this by using well trained and dedicated personnel pledged todeliver the highest quality
fire suppression & prevention, public education, advanced emergency medical services,
which are capable of responding to all disasters, natural or man-made.‖(City Saratoga
Springs.org)
Police Department: City Paid Department
―We are a team of law enforcement professionals committed to setting the benchmark for
quality police service by promoting strong community partnerships and upholding the
highest ethical standards. Our mission is to provide a professional, effective, and timely
response to crime and disorder, and to enhance traffic safety in our community.‖(City
Saratoga Springs.org)
Hospital-Saratoga Hospital Saratoga Hospitalis a 207-bed community hospital serving
Saratoga County and the surrounding areas.
Recreation-The Saratoga Springs Recreation Department offers sports leagues for youth
girls and boys. Currently, the City offers soccer, basketball, t-ball, and flag football
lacrosse, field hockey, and volleyball.
Media–Saratoga news paper,WNYT and capital district YNN news.
10. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 10
Windshield
Survey
City
Saratoga Springs, NY
By David Theobald & Sully
Empire State College 10-12-12
Party Cloudy Temp. 68 degrees
Map of Saratoga Springs NYWindshield Survey City 29.0 Sq. miles Coordinates 43
’4’31’N 73 46’57”W
11. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 11
• Saratoga Springs NY First Settled 1776
• Area 29.0 Square Miles
• Population 26,586
• Government Mayor Scott T. Johnson
• Major Attractions Horse Racing, The Springs, Performing Arts, Art’s and
Entertainment
• Education Empire State College and Skidmore College
• The Saratoga City School district six elementary schools, one middle school and
one high school grades 9-12
12. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 12
• Private School’s Saratoga Central Catholic High School, St Clements's, Waldorf
School and Saratoga Independent School
• Population Census by race 2000
• White alone - 24,005 (90.3%)
• Hispanic - 839 (3.2%)
• Black alone - 661 (2.5%)
• Asian alone - 516 (1.9%)
• Two or more races - 505 (1.9%)
• American Indian alone - 41 (0.2%)
• Other race alone - 15 (0.06%)
• Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone - 4 (0.02%)
Housing
Saratoga Springs ranked 75 of the 100 best places to live in US. According to CNN
Money
13. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 13
Saratoga Springs downtown district is a very sought after market. Houses are well
kept and prices reflect that.
14. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 14
Affordable Housing
William Ford Jefferson Terrace Vanderbilt Terrace
Neat and clean units both single and mul family apartments.
Housing Windshield Survey
The rules and regula ons for Public Housing and Sec on 8 program are determined by the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The purpose of both Public Housing and the
Sec on 8 Program is to provide affordable housing to eligible low- and moderate-income families.
15. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 15
Open Spaces & Parks
Saratoga Spa State Park, distinguished by its classical architecture and listed as a
National Historic Landmark, is noted for its diverse cultural, aesthetic and recreational
resources. In addition to the nationally-known Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the Spa
Little Theater, the National Museum of Dance, the Saratoga Automobile Museum, the
Gideon Putnam Resort and Roosevelt Baths and Spa, the park offers a multitude of
traditional recreation opportunities.
The Peerless Pool Complex consists of a main pool with a zero-depth entry, separate
slide pool with a 19' double slide and a children's wading pool with a mushroom fountain.
The Historic Victoria Pool is a smaller pool surrounded by arched promenades. Both pool
16. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 16
areas include food and beverage areas. The Saratoga Spa State Park Golf
Course offers two beautiful golf courses; a championship 18-hole course and a
challenging 9-hole course, complete with pro shop and restaurant. The gentle terrain
offers picnic areas, shady streamside trails, suitable for the nature-lover or the casual
walker, as well as certified running courses used by joggers and high school and college
athletes. Winter activities include: cross-country skiing on approximately 12 miles of
trails, ice skating, ice hockey.
Many Public Parks with Natural Springs
There are currently 17 public mineral springs in various locations throughout
Saratoga. Each one is naturally carbonated.
17. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 17
Transportation
Saratoga has Buses, Taxies, Amtrak, major highways and well
maintained roads and plenty of traffic lights and easy to follow signs.
18. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 18
Quality Health Care
Saratoga Hospital is a 207-bed community hospital serving Saratoga
County and the surrounding area. Major employer for the area
Good Side Walks and Free Parking
Saratoga has had challenges with parking especially with tourism.
The city just built a large parking garage for the public to use.
19. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 19
Many Services Available For Those in Need
Although not as bad as other areas Saratoga did suffer from the difficult
economic times, which meant many individuals called upon the help and
services of The Salvation Army.
Four Winds
Health and Social Services
Four Winds is a Private inpatient, partial hospital, intensive
outpatient and outpatient for mental heath and substance abuse.
20. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 20
Crime Rates Comparison From Area Connect
Saratoga Springs is one of the safest Cities in the Capital Region.
Economics
Saratoga Springs is a growing community. There are many new buildings and
businesses under construction. The major employers are Stewarts Shops,
Quad Graphic, Saratoga Hospital
21. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 21
Challenges
Although Saratoga Springs is doing well in this economic climate and there appears to be quality
health care delivery systems in place some challenges could be identified. The challenges
identified, More low income housing. More agencies may be needed to support the increase
number of mentally ill and chemical dependent residents.
Schools
Education Empire State College and Skidmore College The Saratoga City School district six elementary
schools, one middle school and one high school grades 9-12
Private School’s Saratoga Central Catholic High School, St Clements's, Waldorf School and Saratoga
Independent School
22. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 22
Saratoga Protective services for it’s residents
Fire Department, Police Station, much of the cities public services
are located in the down town district. Many officers patrol on foot.
23. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 23
Down Town
Saratoga has many Shops and stores that are tailored to Tourism. Down
town has grocery stores, drug stores, clothing shops and many restaurants.
Saratoga many dog friendly stores.
Religion In Saratoga Springs
The Saratoga region has a number of faith-based organizations and places to
worship. The area houses numerous churches, temples and missions, along
with many other organizations.
25. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 25
Key Informants
Key Informant (KI) number one is a Registered Nurse that works and lives in Saratoga
Springs New York. The informant is 46 year’s old and has been working in the
Emergency room at Saratoga Hospital for the last 5 years. The Key Informant is a
married white female who’s native language is English. Highest level of education:
Bachelors of Science in Nursing. During tis interview the informant will be asked a
series of questions about the community.
Key Informant number two (KI2) is a 28-year-old white male from Schenectady NY.
He is a bartender at a local restaurant now living in Saratoga Springs NY. (KI2) has his
high school diploma and speaks English.
1. What are the strengths and assets of the community?
(KI)- ―Saratoga Springs is a safe place to raise a family. Lots of community events
and activities. Our community has quality healthcare and cares about our residents.‖
(KI2) ―Fun city many good restaurants and clubs. I like the race track and Saratoga
performing arts center.‖
2. Areas of Improvement for the community?
(KI) – ―Improving services that expand job growth in the community.‖
(KI2) ―Better jobs and more businesses.‖
3. Concerns of Community Members?
(KI)-Saratoga springs has increasing number of residents that have chemical
dependencies and mental illness. The increasing number of patients being seen for
26. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 26
drug abuse and mental illness is increasing. Having more resources to handle the
influx is essential.‖
(KI2)- ―Expensive to live here.‖
4. Do patients have access to quality healthcare?
(KI)- ―The people of Saratoga Springs have a community hospital that is expanding
its services to meet the need of the community.‖
(KI2)-― I can’t afford health insurance even if they offered it to me it’s difficult to
live in this city unless your have a good job.‖
5. What do you think it is like for the working poor living in this community?
(KI)- Given the demand for real estate there is a much higher cost of living. The
working poor are struggling to buy the essential items needed to live. Minimum
wage workers have a very tough time getting by in this community.‖
(KI2) It’s hard and everyone is struggling to make ends meet.‖
6. How safe do you believe your community is?
(KI)- ―Saratoga Springs is very safe. We have dedicated and professional
firefighters, EMT and police that keep our residents safe.‖
(KI2) Pretty safe we have an occasional bar fights or petty crimes but all in all safe
compared to my home town.‖
7. Who has political power in the community?
(KI) Saratoga has a commission form of Government. The Mayor and the elected
officials have the political power.‖
(KI2) ―The mayor of Saratoga all the city spend sit’s money on is making it look
nice for the tourists.‖
27. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 27
8. Are there opportunities for the poor and vulnerable population to become involved
in the political process? Do you believe there voices are heard?
(KI) ―During the city elections all city residents that own homes and are register
with the city can vote. No I feel most of the poor probably don’t own properties
therefore are not allowed to vote on city issues.‖
(KI2) ―Are beeping kidding me? No only the rich folks have say.‖
9. What housing is available to people with limited resources? Do you believe it is
Adequate? ― (KI) a waiting list for housing assistance in Saratoga and not enough
new low income housing being built.‖
(KI2) ― I share an apartment with two roommates because it’s expensive to live
here.‖
10 Is Public transportation available? (KI) ―Yes we have a good bus system.‖
(KI2) ―Everything is close in the city and if you need a bus there are stops.‖
11. What do you perceive as environmental hazards in the community?
(KI)―Saratoga Springs is a clean community that is recycling minded. I do not
perceive any environmental hazards in the community at this time.‖
(KI2) ― Acid rain and other pollution from surrounding areas.‖
12. Do you believe the public education system meets the needs of the working poor
In this community‖ How?
28. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 28
(KI) Saratoga Springs public schools are ranked in the top 10% in the area. Every student
regardless of social class or wealth can receive the same quality education.‖
(KI2) I hear the schools are good. I graduated from Schenectady where we ranked poorly
for academics. Saratoga is made up of a bunch of rich kids with no worries.‖
13. Are English as a second Language classes available to the working poor?
(KI) ―I do believe that there is a growing need especially during the Racetrack. Saratoga
springs has many Spanish-speaking workers during the summer months. Many times the
workers come in to the ER because they are ill or injured. This creates a language
barrier.‖
(KI2) ―I am not sure but sounds like a good idea.‖
14. Are there vocational/technical programs available for the working poor? (KI) I do
know of a group called Unlimited Potential that provides training to over 50 people with
mental disabilities. I am not aware of all the programs for the working poor.‖
(KI2) ―I am not aware of any programs other than the ones offered by the library but I
think those are not free.‖
15.Describe your perceptions of the health of the community? (KI) ― The community
overall is very health conscious. Many people exercise and are active. On the other scale
while working in the emergency room unhealthy health issues are more apparent.
Obesity, mental illness, and substance abuse are frequently associated with the working
poor.‖
(KI2) I see a lot of active people running, walking, biking. It seems like a healthy place.‖
29. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 29
16. How adequate and accessible are health services? (KI) ―For the most part very
accessible. The hospital has outpatient centers and urgent care centers located in the city
and neighboring communities. Our hospital also has a 16-bed inpatient mental health
unit. Four winds is a large chemical dependency and mental health treatment center
located in Saratoga Springs. Not all patient’s can go there because it is a private. This
does pose a problem for the working poor.‖
(KI2) Thankfully I never had to us the local health services. I hear the hospital sucks. My
friend was there for a broken foot and he was there for six hours before someone even
looked at him.‖
17.How is the community information transmitted? Is it effective and is it in other
languages? (KI) Mostly all the community news is posted in the Saratogian our local new
paper. Other areas include bulletin boards and news radio. The language is English and I
find it to be largely effective.‖
(KI2) Papers and TV
18.How do the working poor and vulnerable population get important health information?
(KI) ―All emergency room patients revive discharge instructions along with the necessary
referrals for follow-up. These can be for primary care, mental health, chemical
dependency to social services.‖
(KI2) ―I am not sure but guess from the community health centers?‖
30. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 30
19. How does the economy of the community affect the health and social well being of
the community? Poor? Is healthcare affordable? (KI) ―I feel the economy is doing well
but this doesn’t tickle down to affordable healthcare. The good thing is that our
community is caring. Many people donate time and money to the local shelters and food
banks especially during the holidays.‖
(KI2) ―There are not enough high paying jobs for individuals that do not have a good
education. The poor just collect welfare and other free things while the rest of community
works hard to support them. I have no tolerance for lazy people.‖
20.What opportunities for fun and recreation are available for the working poor and are
they utilized? (KI)
―Our city has many public parks and recreation areas around the city. From my
experience I believe parks and community areas events are utilized by all the social
classes.‖
(KI2) Public Saratoga State Park. There are also lots of walking paths and other cool
things. Not much is free anymore and expect many things to go up.‖
21. Can you tell me something about the cultural and spiritual/religious aspects of the
poor population an their family? (KI) There are many churches and community outreach
centers located in the city. The religious leaders in the community especially the salvation
army provide supportive services through ministry and faith.‖
(KI2) ―I am not religious but everywhere you turn there are churches.‖
31. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 31
22. In your opinion, do cultural beliefs of the population affect delivery of health care
services? How? ―I feel that our community is composed of many different believe
systems that are supportive of the poor and vulnerable. I see this the most during the
holiday season. The community uses their beliefs to do more good for the less fortunate.‖
(KI2) ―I don’t see that as a factor.‖
23. Is there anything else you would like to tell me that influences the health of the
community‖(KI) ―I believe the culture of Saratoga springs is rich in culture and history.
The city was founded on its healing waters and natural springs. I feel that history still
rings true to this day.‖
(KI2) ―The number of fast food restaurants.‖
3.Epidemiology-―is the study of the distribution of health and illness within a population,
factors that determine the population’s health status, and use of the knowledge generated
to control the development of health problems‖(Clark 2008 p.62). During my windshield
survey of the City of Saratoga Springs I’ve identified a community need based on the
population groups. According to Healthy People 2020 Heart disease remains the highest
percentage of all mortality rates in the nation. Although the city of Saratoga Springs is a
health conscious community the people are still at risk for heart disease and sudden
cardiac arrest. Chart 1.3 is from Healthy People 2020 and shows the greatest amounts of
deaths of all ages in the United States of America.
32. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 32
1.3 Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics;
data from the National Vital Statistics System (2006). Data are not age-adjusted.
Based on the vital statistics from the CDC New York State including Saratoga County
NY is not immune to heart disease and sudden cardiac arrest. Developing a CPR and
AED teaching plan the community health nurse can have a significant impact on the
people of Saratoga Springs NY and the surrounding community. “Community health
nurses employ knowledge attitudes, and skills, in application of several specific processes
when providing care to individuals, families, and population groups”(Clark 2008 p.74).
The health problem of heart disease and cardiac arrest affects all communities and does
not discriminate against populations groups, racial/ethnic, rich or poor. In this community
assessment project I have identified nursing actions that will increase life saving
interventions for sudden cardiac arrest associated with heart disease.
33. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 33
Population aggregate and developmental stage-
According to the population aggregate ages 18-65 years old make up 67.2 % of the
people in the community. Using Eric Erikson’s eight stages of life we will examine the
early adulthood and middle age community members. Sudden cardiac arrest can impact
people of all ages but this population is the most at risk. Erikson describes early
adulthood “as development of one’s capacity for reciprocal relationships”(Clark 2008
p.497). The community involvement with CPR and AED training is a perfect prevention
tool for the community. Young and old people can make to make a difference in their
community. Being certified in CPR is helping both early adulthood and middle age
citizens participate in life having strategies to help any one suffering from sudden cardiac
arrest.
As a community nurse I will use this information to increase awareness about the risks of
heart disease and sudden cardiac arrest. Community health nurses help resolve health
problems through teaching and services.“Nursing services may include activities such as
health related education and influenza immunizations for older adults in an adult day care
center, blood pressure screenings and nutritional counseling at a community health fair,
stress management group discussion at a local church, or a cardiopulmonary resuscitation
(CPR class in a school”(Blais & Hayes 2011 p.348)
Political, Cultural, Economic and laws
The City of Saratoga currently teaches CPR to the community through local Emergency
Medical Services, Fire Departments, American Red Cross and the American Heart
Association. The economical issues are the cost for the training, which can be between
$25 to $50 dollars per person. Although some CPR training & AED is free most is
34. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 34
provided of a fee. This could inhibit community members from getting trained. The
media and community do support CPR training and offer training through community
centers and the American Red Cross. Recent laws in NYS are increasing awareness of
CPR and its importance in the community.
Currently, CPR is gaining national attention with bill S2491. This act is to amend the
education law, in relation to requiring schools to provide instruction for CRP as part of
their high school curriculum. If this bill becomes law it will have a significant impact on
saving life’s from sudden cardiac arrest. “In addition to measures of disease and
mortality, changes in the composition of a population over time are also important in
planning for health services (Shi & Singh 2008 p.71). This bill will provide life saving
measures that addresses the leading cause of death in the United States.
Community Diagnosis
Diminish risk of sudden cardiac arrest’s deaths in the City of Saratoga Springs through
expanding initiation of community CPR & AED training in the community.
Community Resource: Adirondack Health & Wellness
Adirondack Health & Wellness is a nurse owned and operated PLLC with locations in
Clifton Park and Saratoga Springs NY.
Company Mission: When it comes to employee health, it takes more than just offering
sick days to keep your employees healthy and productive. Prevention is the best
medicine. Adirondack Health & Wellness and health educators can then help them make
positive lifestyle changes for the long term, improving their health and well being. We all
35. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 35
need positive reinforcement, especially when it comes to change.
The philosophy of the company is doing good for the community you serve. Adirondack
Health & Wellness provides CPR & AED training to corporations and medical
professionals. Because of the corporate sponsors and members the company is able to
donate free CPR and AED’s to community sports leagues. This organization is working
with members of the community to identify area sports leagues in need of CPR & AED
training.
Community Health Nursing Role
The role of the community nurse in this setting is to become certified to teach CPR &
AED certification classes. “Community health nurses employ knowledge, attitudes, and
skills in the application of several specific processes when providing care to individuals,
families, and population groups”(Clark 2008 p.74).
The ideal nursing role for the community health-nursing model is the interventions wheel
fig 1.4. “The model consists of 17 identified community health nursing intervention that
cross over three levels of population-based practice: individual-focused, community-
focused, and systems-focused practice”(Clark 2008 p75). Using this model we can break
it down into primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention.
36. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 36
fig. 1.4 Minnesota Department of Health, St. Paul,
Minnesota 55164-0975, USA.
Primary prevention method for this population base oneducating the community on the
importance of AED’s and trained member’s of the community to use them. Another
primary prevention is advocacy in the community for increased awareness of the
importance of CPR & AED training in the community.
Secondary prevention can be accomplished with health teaching and diagnostic
screenings in the community. Free Blood pressure and cholesterol screening in the
community can help identify people more at risk for developing heart disease.
37. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 37
Tertiary prevention is the treatment if consequences through life saving CPR & AED
interventions in the community. Another highlight is prevention of recurrence by use of
AED’s in public places and more people trained to use them.
Conclusion for Community Assessment
Heart disease remains as the number one heath problem in the United States of America.
The City of Saratoga Springs is not immune from this epidemic. The community
assessment project gave me the skills to identify the dimensions of a health problem and
skills on preventing recurrences of the problem. ―The focus in community nursing is the
community: it is a practice that is comprehensive and continues, takes place in a wide
variety of settings, is directed toward all age-groups, and commands the utilization of all
professional nursing roles‖(Clark 2008 .344). In summery this project will provide a
valuable benefit for the City of Saratoga Springs. Through collaboration and
communication with community leaders more citizens will be trained in life saving CPR
& AED. By creating this program community health nurses are creating a safer place to
live, work, and play.
38. Running Head: COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PAPER 38
References
Blais, K.K. and Hayes, J.S. (2011). Professional Nursing Practice: Concepts and
Perspectives, (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall
The Center For Disease Control. (November 27,2012) Retrieved
From:http://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/
Clark, M., (2008). Community Health Nursing Advocacy For Population Health, (fifth
edition.). Peasron, Upper Saddle, N.J.
Minnesota Department of Health. (December 7, 2012). Retrieved
from:(http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/phnc/InterventionWheel/index.htm
Schuster, P. and Nykolyn, L (2101). Communication for Nurses: How to Prevent
Harmful Events and Promote Patient Safety,(1st ed.) Philadelphia PA:F.A. Davis
Company
Shi, L., & Singh, D. A. (2008). Delivering health care in America: A systems approach
(4th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett.