Please use the zip code 33311 which is the Lauderhill community in Florida, USA. The real-world clinical experience focuses on a community or zip code area identified by the student or instructor. Each student, will drive or walk through the chosen community making assessments associated with a traditional windshield survey. Windshield survey data commonly include observations such as taking notes about the age and condition of the homes in the area; the amount of activity on the streets; the noise level in various areas of the community; the amount of traffic and/or public transportation; the location, type and condition of public buildings and businesses (e.g., how many liquor stores, pawnshops, beauty shops, conveniences stores, government buildings, clinics, hospitals, etc.). Additionally, the students should take notes on the availability of grocery stores/food resources; green space and recreation opportunities; and community centers, places of worship, or other facilities that encourage members of the community to gather together. These notes will be used in assignments after the completion of the clinical experience.
In this clinical activity, students will identify personal values, attitudes, and biases that influenced their observations and reactions to the real-world community that was assessed. Students will also reflect on how understanding these personal feelings can impact their ability to be effective in the community/public health nursing role. Students will develop at least 1 strategy to minimize personal bias to improve effectiveness.
Instructions:
Students should develop a 2-page reflection paper (approximately 500 words) that addresses the following:
The student’s initial reactions to the community where the student carried out the windshield survey; students should identify the personal values that influenced their observations and reactions.
What attitudes and biases did the student bring to this experience that affected his/her interpretation and response to what he/she observed in this community?
How might the student’s values, attitudes, and biases affect his/her ability to interact effectively with impoverished or disadvantaged communities/populations?
How does understanding one’s own values, biases, and attitudes impact the ability to be effective in the public health nursing role?
Discuss 1 personal strategy students can take that addresses the impact of their own values, attitudes, and biases as they work with impoverished or disadvantaged communities.
