[community Public Health] Chapter 29: State And Local Health Departments
-
Under the U.S. Constitution, which level of government has primary responsibility for health care of American citizens?
-
County/district level of government
-
Federal level of government
-
State level of government
-
Town/city/village level of government
-
This quiz covers the roles, responsibilities, and funding of state and local health departments in the U. S., focusing on public health management and policy. It assesses understanding of governmental health operations and collaborative health initiatives.
![[community Public Health] Chapter 29: State And Local Health Departments - Quiz](https://media.proprofs.com/images/QM/user_images/misc/rr_1.jpg "[community Public Health] Chapter 29: State And Local Health Departments - Quiz")
Quiz Preview
- 2.
Public health funding represents what percentage of total health care funding expenditures?
-
1% to 4%
-
5% to 9%
-
10% to 14%
-
15% to 19%
Correct Answer
A. 1% to 4%Explanation
Public health funding represents a relatively small percentage (1% to 4%) of total health care funding expenditures. This suggests that a majority of health care funding is allocated towards other areas such as medical treatments, hospital care, and specialized services. The limited funding for public health indicates that there may be a need for increased investment in preventive measures, health education, and community-based interventions to address and improve overall population health outcomes.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
A nurse is employed by a local health department. Which of the following would be a core responsibility of this role?
-
Assessment and surveillance of the health status of its residents
-
Providing direct care to vulnerable populations in the community
-
Using marketing strategies to educate citizens about healthy lifestyle choices
-
Implementing quality assurance methods at local care facilities
Correct Answer
A. Assessment and surveillance of the health status of its residentsExplanation
A nurse employed by a local health department would have a core responsibility of assessing and monitoring the health status of the residents in the community. This involves gathering data, conducting health assessments, and monitoring trends in health issues. By doing so, the nurse can identify health needs, prioritize interventions, and develop strategies to improve the overall health and well-being of the community. This responsibility is crucial in ensuring that the health department can effectively plan and implement programs and interventions to address the specific health needs of the residents.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
To qualify to be the chief executive in most state health departments, which of the following is the requirement?
-
Medical doctor with a degree in public health
-
Nurse with expertise in public health and administration
-
PhD in any profession and a degree in public health
-
Political appointment, serving at the discretion of the governor
Correct Answer
A. Political appointment, serving at the discretion of the governorExplanation
The requirement to qualify as the chief executive in most state health departments is a political appointment, serving at the discretion of the governor. This means that the governor has the authority to appoint someone to this position based on their political affiliations or qualifications, rather than specific educational or professional requirements. This allows the governor to choose a candidate who aligns with their priorities and vision for the state's health department.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
A nurse has recently been hired by a state health agency. Which of the following activities would the nurse most likely complete?
-
Collaborating with other professionals on the states disaster plan
-
Hiring physicians and nurses to provide direct care to needy clients
-
Performing blood pressure screenings at a community center
-
Assuring quality health care in facilities in the state
Correct Answer
A. Collaborating with other professionals on the states disaster planExplanation
The nurse would most likely collaborate with other professionals on the state's disaster plan because as a nurse working for a state health agency, disaster preparedness and response is an important aspect of public health. Nurses play a crucial role in planning and coordinating efforts to ensure the health and safety of the community during disasters. This includes collaborating with other professionals to develop strategies, protocols, and guidelines for disaster response, as well as training and educating healthcare providers and the public.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
A public health nurse is employed by a state health department and is coordinating a lead screening program in the state. What is the most likely source of funding for this programming?
-
Federal and state tax dollars
-
Fees for services
-
Local and county tax funds
-
Research and grant funds
Correct Answer
A. Federal and state tax dollarsExplanation
The most likely source of funding for a lead screening program coordinated by a public health nurse employed by a state health department would be federal and state tax dollars. This is because public health programs, especially those focused on screening and prevention, are often funded by government agencies using tax revenues. These funds help ensure that essential public health services can be provided to the community without relying on individual fees or local tax funds. Research and grant funds may also be used to support specific projects within the program, but the primary source of funding would likely be federal and state tax dollars.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
A nurse employed by a state health agency has been notified that her position within the agency will be eliminated. Which of the following factors has most likely contributed to this?
-
A downturn in the economy and tax reform efforts mean fewer state tax dollars.
-
Federal government funds given to states for health needs have been used for other purposes.
-
The need to provide care is declining as new mandates from the federal level are felt by local communities.
-
There is a decreased demand for public health services by the community.
Correct Answer
A. A downturn in the economy and tax reform efforts mean fewer state tax dollars.Explanation
The nurse's position within the state health agency is being eliminated most likely due to a downturn in the economy and tax reform efforts, which have resulted in fewer state tax dollars. This suggests that the agency is facing financial constraints and needs to cut costs, leading to the elimination of certain positions.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
Which of the following determines the authority, responsibility, and funding of local health departments?
-
County/district legislation
-
The federal government
-
The local health department
-
State legislation
Correct Answer
A. State legislationExplanation
State legislation determines the authority, responsibility, and funding of local health departments. State laws outline the powers and duties of local health departments, including their jurisdiction, organizational structure, and funding mechanisms. These laws ensure that local health departments are accountable to the state government and provide consistent standards and regulations across different counties or districts within the state. The federal government may provide some funding and guidance to local health departments, but the ultimate authority lies with the state legislation.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
When asked, What does your state health department do for you? the average citizen might well respond, Nothing. What does such a response illustrate?
-
Citizens are woefully uninformed about health and health care.
-
Citizens resent being asked personal questions.
-
Health is not a priority for Americans.
-
Most direct services are provided by local health departments.
Correct Answer
A. Most direct services are provided by local health departments.Explanation
This response illustrates that citizens are unaware of the direct services provided by their state health department and mistakenly believe that they do nothing for them. It suggests a lack of knowledge about the role and responsibilities of state health departments in promoting and protecting public health.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
Which of the following sources produces the most revenue at the local level?
-
Grants
-
Fees for service
-
Levies
-
Resource allocation
Correct Answer
A. LeviesExplanation
Levies are a type of tax or fee imposed by a government on its citizens or businesses. Unlike grants, which are typically funds given by a government or organization for a specific purpose, levies generate revenue directly from the local population. Fees for service may also generate revenue, but they are typically charged for specific services provided by the local government. Resource allocation refers to the distribution of resources and does not directly generate revenue. Therefore, levies are likely to produce the most revenue at the local level.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
A local health department is considering writing a grant to expand services for young women and children in the community. Which of the following factors would lead the agency to decide not to apply for available grant funding?
-
The employment of quality grant writers at the agency is too expensive.
-
The grant-writing process is not the most efficient way to obtain more funding
-
The restrictions and accountability costs may exceed the money received.
-
The staff is unfamiliar with the grant application process.
Correct Answer
A. The restrictions and accountability costs may exceed the money received.Explanation
The agency may decide not to apply for available grant funding because the restrictions and accountability costs associated with the grant may outweigh the amount of money received. This means that the agency would have to spend a significant amount of resources and effort to meet the requirements and reporting obligations of the grant, which may not be worth it if the funding received is not substantial enough to cover these additional costs.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
A public health nurse has been asked to be part of a coalition to promote legislation to ban smoking in public places in the state. Why is it important for the nurse to be part of this coalition?
-
The nurse can prioritize community health care needs to address the problem.
-
The nurse can determine the needs of others and the priority of any care needed.
-
The nurse can effectively communicate among various stakeholder groups.
-
The nurse can educate other people and enforce the legislation when it is passed.
Correct Answer
A. The nurse can effectively communicate among various stakeholder groups.Explanation
The nurse being part of the coalition is important because they can effectively communicate among various stakeholder groups. As a public health nurse, they have the knowledge and expertise to engage with different individuals and organizations involved in the issue of smoking in public places. By being part of the coalition, the nurse can advocate for the legislation, gather support from different stakeholders, and ensure that their concerns and perspectives are taken into account. This collaboration and communication are crucial for the success of the coalition's efforts in promoting and passing the legislation.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
For what population size are most local health departments responsible?
-
Populations of 50,000 or fewer
-
Very large populations of 100,000 or more
-
Very large populations of 250,000 or more
-
Populations of more than 1 million residents
Correct Answer
A. Populations of 50,000 or fewerExplanation
Most local health departments are responsible for populations of 50,000 or fewer because they are typically smaller in size and have limited resources. Managing larger populations requires more funding, staff, and infrastructure, which may not be available for smaller health departments. Additionally, smaller populations may have more localized health issues that can be addressed more effectively by a local health department. Therefore, it is more common for local health departments to be responsible for smaller populations.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
Aside from administrative staff, which professional group represents the majority of professionals in public health departments?
-
Epidemiologists
-
Nurses
-
Physicians
-
Environmental sanitarians
Correct Answer
A. NursesExplanation
Nurses represent the majority of professionals in public health departments because they play a crucial role in providing direct patient care, health education, and preventive services. They are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals and communities, making them essential in promoting and maintaining public health. Nurses work closely with individuals from various backgrounds and ages, making their expertise valuable in addressing the diverse health needs of the population. Their broad scope of practice and holistic approach to healthcare make them an integral part of public health departments.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
Which of the following professionals inspects or assesses the safety of water supplies, restaurants, dairies, sewers, and swimming pools for public health departments?
-
Environmental sanitarians
-
Epidemiologists
-
Public health director
-
Public health nurse
Correct Answer
A. Environmental sanitariansExplanation
Environmental sanitarians are professionals who inspect and assess the safety of various facilities such as water supplies, restaurants, dairies, sewers, and swimming pools for public health departments. They ensure that these establishments meet the necessary health and safety regulations to protect the public from potential hazards and diseases. Epidemiologists study patterns and causes of diseases in populations, while a public health director oversees the overall operations of a public health department, and a public health nurse provides direct patient care and promotes public health.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
A school health nurse contacted the public health department with concern that increasing numbers of parents were calling the school and reporting their child would not be in attendance because of a sore throat and fever. Which professional staff member would be most helpful in such a situation?
-
An epidemiologist, who might determine whether a disease outbreak was occurring
-
A nurse, who could give home care to each of the ill children
-
A physician, who could visit each of the ill children
-
The principal of the school, who could insist that the children stay in isolation
Correct Answer
A. An epidemiologist, who might determine whether a disease outbreak was occurringExplanation
An epidemiologist would be most helpful in this situation because they are experts in studying patterns and causes of diseases in populations. They would be able to analyze the data and investigate if there is a disease outbreak occurring among the students. By identifying the cause and extent of the outbreak, appropriate measures can be taken to prevent further spread and ensure the health and safety of the students.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
Which branch of the federal government funds the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental food program?
-
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
-
The Department of Agriculture
-
The Department of Health and Human Services
-
The Public Health Department
Correct Answer
A. The Department of AgricultureExplanation
The correct answer is The Department of Agriculture. The WIC supplemental food program is funded by the Department of Agriculture. This program provides nutrition education, healthy food, and support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. The Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in ensuring that these vulnerable populations have access to nutritious food and proper healthcare.Rate this question:
-
- 18.
A public health nurse is employed by a state health department and provides disease investigation and tracks contacts of persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Which agency is most likely to provide funding for this position?
-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
-
Department of Agriculture
-
Department of Health and Human Services
-
Federal Public Health Department
Correct Answer
A. Centers for Disease Control and PreventionExplanation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is most likely to provide funding for the position of a public health nurse employed by a state health department. The CDC is a federal agency under the Department of Health and Human Services that focuses on disease prevention and control. Since the nurse's role involves disease investigation and tracking contacts of persons infected with HIV, it aligns with the CDC's mission and expertise in addressing public health issues. The Department of Agriculture and Federal Public Health Department may not have specific funding for this position, while the Department of Health and Human Services is the parent agency of the CDC.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
A young pregnant woman is unemployed and does not have access to health insurance. Which of the following programs would be able to assist her in obtaining health insurance?
-
Sliding fee scale
-
Women, Infants, and Children Supplemental Food program (WIC)
-
Medicare
-
Medicaid
Correct Answer
A. MedicaidExplanation
Medicaid is a government program that provides health insurance to low-income individuals and families, including pregnant women. It is designed to assist those who are unable to afford private health insurance or do not have access to employer-sponsored coverage. Therefore, Medicaid would be able to assist the young pregnant woman in obtaining health insurance.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
A public health nurse working in the late 1800s would have most likely provided care to which of the following clients?
-
An 80-year-old man who had diabetes
-
A 40-year-old woman who did not have health insurance
-
A 20-year-old woman who was pregnant
-
A 30-year-old man who had Down syndrome
Correct Answer
A. A 20-year-old woman who was pregnantExplanation
During the late 1800s, public health nurses primarily focused on providing care to vulnerable populations, including pregnant women. Pregnancy was a significant health concern during this time due to limited access to healthcare and high mortality rates for both mothers and infants. Therefore, it is most likely that a public health nurse working in the late 1800s would have provided care to a 20-year-old pregnant woman, ensuring her well-being and the health of her unborn child.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
A nurse has recently been hired to work as a public health nurse at a local health department. She wonders what her role will be in this new setting. Which of the following documents would provide this information?
-
Community Health Certification Criteria from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
-
The states nurse practice act
-
Public Health Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice
-
The Future of Public Health
Correct Answer
A. Public Health Nursing: Scope and Standards of PracticeExplanation
The correct answer is "Public Health Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice." This document would provide the nurse with information about her role as a public health nurse in the new setting. It would outline the scope of practice and the standards that she should adhere to in order to provide effective public health nursing care. The document would provide guidance on the responsibilities, competencies, and ethical considerations specific to public health nursing.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
Which of the following activities is a public health nurse most likely to be involved in during the twenty-first century?
-
Preventing the spread of communicable diseases
-
Assisting uninsured clients in obtaining health care services
-
Providing direct care services for uninsured individuals
-
Developing multiagency collaborations and partnerships
Correct Answer
A. Developing multiagency collaborations and partnershipsExplanation
A public health nurse is most likely to be involved in developing multiagency collaborations and partnerships in the twenty-first century. This is because public health issues have become more complex and require a collaborative approach involving various agencies and organizations. By developing collaborations and partnerships, public health nurses can work together with other stakeholders to address health issues more effectively and efficiently. This approach allows for the pooling of resources, expertise, and knowledge to improve the overall health outcomes of the community.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 17, 2023 +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 17, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
May 12, 2020Quiz Created by
Draconisnightman
Back to top