Windshield

The purpose of a windshield survey is to gather a broad, observational overview of a community in order to assess factors that influence the health and well-being of its residents. It is a community assessment method used in population health nursing to observe and analyze environmental, social, and structural factors that influence health. This assignment allows you to apply population health concepts by systematically observing a community and identifying strengths, needs, and potential health implications.

The goals from the survey are to:

• Assess Community Characteristics Quickly
• Provides a visual overview of the physical, social, and environmental features of a community.
• Helps identify resources, infrastructure, and potential health risks.
• Identify Community Strengths and Needs
• Observes aspects such as housing quality, parks, schools, grocery stores, and transportation systems.
• Highlights potential barriers to health care, food access, or safe environments.
• Inform Community Health Planning
• Helps nurses and public health professionals develop interventions and programs tailored to the communitys unique characteristics.
• Guides prioritization of health issues based on observed needs.
• Support Population Health Assessment
• Provides contextual information for understanding social determinants of health (SDOH).
• Helps identify populations at risk and opportunities for health promotion and disease prevention.
• Encourage Critical Thinking and Observation Skills
• Trains students and professionals to notice patterns, trends, and disparities in the community.
• Supports evidence-based decision-making in community health practice.

Assignment Instructions:

You will complete a windshield survey of a community from your vehicle, using the data collection table provided. Observations should be objective, detailed, and supported by limited external data when appropriate (e.g., census data, community websites).

Community Selection

• Choose a community you do not currently live, as the purpose is to gain an objective, firsthand, and visual overview of a specific areas environment, resources, and in some cases, deficiencies

Instructions

1. Drive through the selected community and observe conditions related to:

• Housing
• Infrastructure
• Services
• Safety
• Environmental factors

1. Complete all sections of the data collection table with thoughtful, descriptive observations.
2. Supplement observations with brief factual data when appropriate (e.g., population size, air quality index).
3. Take original photographs of the community while conducting your windshield survey.
4. Answer the reflective question at the end of the assignment.

I chose downtown Baltimore

please use the wind shield survey