Category: NURS-FPX4055

Capella FPX 4055 Assessment 4 Name Capella university NURS-FPX4055 Optimizing Population Health through Community Practice Prof. Name Date Health Promotion Plan Presentation Good day, everyone. I am _____, and I appreciate the presence of our valued community partners for this vital session. Today’s presentation addresses the prevention of adolescent substance use among youth aged 12 to 18 in Rowan County, particularly in the communities of Salisbury and Landis. We will examine the dangers of substance misuse, the necessity for early intervention, and methods for empowering youth to make healthier decisions. Additionally, we will share actionable tools for encouraging communication, managing stress, and directing teens to available community resources. This presentation is structured around SMART goals and aligns with the Healthy People 2030 national health objectives. Presentation Overview This session includes the following: Presenting key statistics on substance use, related risks, and associated health issues. Discussing the impact of drugs and alcohol on adolescent well-being and school success. Empowering participants to identify early warning signs of substance use. Building communication skills to encourage dialogue with trusted adults. Involving attendees in interactive exercises like role-plays and stress-relief practices. Evaluating understanding, attitudes, and confidence through quizzes and surveys. Understanding Substance Abuse and Its Consequences Substance misuse among adolescents is a pressing issue, especially in rural locations such as Rowan County, North Carolina. Although national surveys offer some insight, they often do not capture local realities. According to available regional data, the adolescent substance use rate in Rowan County is approximately 47.1%—an alarming statistic indicating increased risk in this population (Rowan County, 2021). Contributing factors in towns like Salisbury and Landis include low-income levels, unstable family environments, inadequate mental health services, and a lack of safe recreational spaces, all of which elevate the potential for harmful behaviors (Lee et al., 2024). The consequences of early substance use extend beyond immediate health issues. It is linked with chronic conditions such as anxiety, depression, poor school performance, and risky behaviors like unsafe sex and driving under the influence (Lee et al., 2024). Substance use during adolescence may interfere with neurological development, particularly in brain areas tied to judgment and self-regulation. Early education and access to resources are crucial for prevention, especially in underserved rural communities where healthcare and support systems are limited (Horigian et al., 2020). Table 1: Local Socioeconomic Indicators and Substance Abuse Risk (Rowan County, 2021) Indicator Value Implications for Adolescents Substance Use Rate 47.1% Elevated risk of addiction and behavioral issues Average Household Income $49,842 Financial stress may impact access to health services Food Insecurity 22% Nutritional deficiencies may affect mental and physical health Children Under 19 with Free Healthcare 5.6% Limited access to preventative care Importance of Early Prevention in Adolescence Preventing substance use during adolescence significantly enhances long-term health outcomes. Adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 are particularly susceptible to long-term harm due to the developmental stage of their brains (Tapert & Shumate, 2022). Substance use can hinder cognitive processes, emotional stability, and academic performance. Benefits of prevention include: Protection of Brain Development: Preventing substance use reduces interference in brain areas responsible for memory and decision-making. Improved Academic Outcomes: Students avoiding substances often perform better academically. Lower Addiction Risk: Early education can prevent the progression to addiction. Enhanced Social Bonds: Youth who abstain are more likely to maintain positive relationships. Reduction in Criminal Behavior: Avoiding substances reduces the risk of engaging in illegal activities. Stronger Communities: Prevention efforts reduce emergency healthcare use and improve public safety (Rowan County, 2021). Strategies for Effective Prevention Communication Engaging adolescents in meaningful discussions about substance use involves tactful and informed approaches: Use of Reliable Evidence: Present data from organizations like the CDC or SAMHSA to reinforce the benefits of early prevention (Horigian et al., 2020). Encouraging Dialogue with Open-Ended Questions: Posing thoughtful questions such as “What might make you feel pressured to try substances?” helps open communication (Kratovil et al., 2023). Debunking Substance Use Myths: Clarifying misconceptions such as “experimentation is harmless” empowers youth to make informed choices (Lee et al., 2024). SMART Goals Developed for This Session The following SMART goals were established with participants to guide and measure the session’s effectiveness: SMART Goal Evaluation Method 85% of participants, including Jason, will identify four health risks of drug use. Post-session quiz 60% of participants will feel confident discussing substance use with family and peers. Communication role-play feedback 100% of participants will use at least two stress management techniques. Group practice and self-assessment These goals aim to equip participants with the tools and confidence necessary for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Session Outcomes Based on SMART Goals The session outcomes aligned closely with our SMART goals: Goal 1: Achieved. 85% of attendees successfully identified key risks related to substance use. Goal 2: Near goal. 60% expressed readiness for conversations, though some hesitancy remained. Goal 3: Surpassed. 100% of participants learned and used stress-reduction techniques like breathing exercises. Need for Further Improvements Although the session was impactful, several improvements were identified: Communication Readiness: Some teens needed more preparation before engaging in difficult conversations. Application of Stress Techniques: A few participants required ongoing support to effectively apply stress-reduction methods. Recommended Enhancements: Include simulated family discussions to practice communication skills. Add more guided role-play focused on addressing drug myths. Offer structured follow-up sessions to reinforce skills and offer additional support (Gu et al., 2021). Feedback from participants emphasized the session’s value. Jason remarked, “I’ve realized how much stress I face, and I now know better ways to manage it without turning to drugs.” Another participant shared, “Before this, I didn’t know how to talk to my parents. Now I feel more prepared.” Table 2: Participant Feedback and Suggested Enhancements Observation Suggested Change Hesitancy in conversation Include parent-teen dialogue practices Lack of confidence with coping techniques Increase hands-on stress management sessions Request for continued support Provide ongoing peer or digital follow-up resources Evaluation Based on Healthy People 2030 Objectives This program contributed to meeting Healthy People 2030 goals related to reducing adolescent substance use. Participants demonstrated increased awareness of health consequences, and many improved their coping and communication abilities (Callaghan et

Capella FPX 4055 Assessment 3 Name Capella university NURS-FPX4055 Optimizing Population Health through Community Practice Prof. Name Date Disaster Recovery Plan: Determinants of Health and Barriers Health Risks Among the Elderly Population In Valley City, individuals aged 65 and older represent approximately 22% of the community. Many among this group have complex medical needs, including mobility limitations and chronic conditions, which require ongoing management and support, particularly in disaster scenarios. The need for specialized services during emergencies underscores the vulnerability of this aging population. Challenges Faced by Persons with Disabilities Roughly 147 residents live with hearing or speech impairments and depend on American Sign Language (ASL) or lip-reading for communication. Their safety becomes a critical concern during disasters that lead to power outages or disrupt communication systems, as these impair their ability to receive vital information. Cultural and Linguistic Barriers A small yet growing Latino demographic (3%) in Valley City includes undocumented individuals who face both linguistic and cultural barriers. Limited proficiency in English and fear of deportation can prevent them from seeking aid or understanding emergency protocols during disasters. Economic Pressures and Public Safety Limitations Ongoing financial constraints have led to staffing reductions in essential public safety roles, including police and fire departments. This has weakened the city’s disaster response infrastructure and reduced its ability to manage large-scale emergencies effectively. Healthcare System Constraints The Valley City Regional Hospital is operating at nearly full capacity, with 97 out of 105 beds occupied. Outdated equipment and financial limitations impede the facility’s ability to adapt to surge demands during disaster events, further compounding vulnerabilities. Interrelationships Among Determinants and Barriers Access Challenges for Vulnerable Groups The elderly and individuals with disabilities encounter numerous obstacles in evacuating or receiving care during emergencies. Many shelters and care facilities lack the infrastructure to support these populations adequately (Kleinman et al., 2021). Linguistic and Immigration-Related Hesitancy Language differences and fear of legal consequences deter undocumented residents from accessing emergency resources, despite their heightened vulnerability (Dadson et al., 2024). Diminished Capacity of Emergency Services Budgetary reductions have adversely impacted police and fire departments, limiting the availability of personnel and equipment necessary for a coordinated emergency response (Dadson et al., 2024). Insufficient Shelter for the Homeless Shelters in Valley City are frequently overcrowded, leaving many individuals experiencing homelessness without safe refuge or transportation during disasters (Dadson et al., 2024). Healthcare Shortages and Socioeconomic Inequities Inadequate healthcare infrastructure, along with economic and cultural disparities, increases the risk for poor outcomes among low-income and culturally diverse populations (Lee et al., 2022). Promoting Health Equity Through a Culturally Sensitive Recovery Plan Planning with an Equity Lens Centering recovery efforts around health equity helps mitigate the disparities seen among socially vulnerable populations (Kleinman et al., 2021). Tailored Strategies for Aging Adults Disaster plans should incorporate mobile health units, develop partnerships with long-term care facilities, and implement specific evacuation protocols to meet the needs of older adults (Kleinman et al., 2021). Recognition of Social Vulnerability The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classifies Valley City as socially vulnerable due to factors such as age, disability status, poverty, and homelessness (CDC, 2024a). Inclusive and Culturally Responsive Communication Emergency communication efforts should be multilingual and culturally appropriate to overcome barriers related to language and trust (CDC, 2024a). Recovery Aid for Economically Disadvantaged Groups U.S. Census data highlights that economically disadvantaged and less-educated residents experience longer recovery periods unless specific support mechanisms are implemented (Census Bureau, 2023). Ethical Care Distribution A just recovery strategy involves culturally competent care teams and equitable allocation of recovery resources (Census Bureau, 2023). Policy and CERC Framework in Recovery Role of Public Policy Effective disaster recovery in Valley City depends heavily on inclusive and accessible government policies that prioritize vulnerable populations (ADA, 2021). ADA Compliance and Accessibility The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that shelters and communication strategies accommodate individuals with disabilities, an essential consideration for the city’s elderly and hearing-impaired residents (ADA, 2021). Importance of Inclusive Messaging through CERC The Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) framework emphasizes empathy and inclusiveness. Previous lapses, such as during a train derailment, underline the need for improvement in these areas (Hostetter & Naser, 2022). Federal Support via the Stafford Act The Stafford Act enables federal assistance for disaster declarations, healthcare surges, and infrastructure restoration, offering essential backing for Valley City’s recovery (FEMA, 2021). Monitoring and Transparency Provisions under the Stafford Act require detailed tracking of disease outbreaks, housing conditions, and at-risk populations to ensure accountability (FEMA, 2021). Building Resilience Through DRRA The Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) of 2018 focuses on proactive investment in community resilience, such as infrastructure upgrades and clean water access (FEMA, 2021). Communication Strategies and Interprofessional Collaboration Application of the CERC Framework Employing the CERC approach ensures timely, clear, and community-specific communication, particularly valuable for diverse populations (CDC, 2024b). Multi-Channel Emergency Alerts Messages should be delivered in multiple formats—text, audio, and visual—to reach individuals with sensory disabilities and limited English proficiency (Lloyd, 2023). Unified Emergency Leadership Establishing shared leadership structures across fire, police, and healthcare services fosters cohesion and consistency in emergency response (Abbas & Miller, 2025). Integrated Disaster Planning Centralized planning and shared resource management reduce confusion and enhance response efficiency (Aldao et al., 2021). Outreach to Underserved Populations Training culturally competent outreach workers and navigators can improve support for marginalized groups such as seniors, the homeless, and individuals with disabilities (Aldao et al., 2021). Table: Summary of Determinants, Barriers, and Recovery Strategies Determinant/Barrier Impact Recovery Strategy Source Aging Population Limited mobility and chronic care needs during disasters Mobile health units, evacuation planning Kleinman et al., 2021 Disabilities Communication issues during outages ADA-compliant alerts and shelters ADA, 2021 Language and Immigration Fear and language barriers inhibit access to help Multilingual outreach, trust-building CDC, 2024a; Dadson et al., 2024 Economic Instability Reduced public safety capacity Cross-agency collaboration and federal aid Abbas & Miller, 2025; FEMA, 2021 Strained Healthcare System Limited surge capacity, outdated tools DRRA funding, infrastructure upgrades Lee et al., 2022; FEMA, 2021 Homelessness Overcrowded shelters,

Capella FPX 4055 Assessment 2 Name Capella university NURS-FPX4055 Optimizing Population Health through Community Practice Prof. Name Date Community Resources Local Support and Disaster Response in Louisiana In coastal Louisiana, the role of local nonprofits and governmental agencies is vital for safeguarding public health and safety. Among these entities, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is especially significant. Initially founded by President Jimmy Carter in 1979 and integrated into the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in 2003, FEMA is well known for its disaster relief operations (FEMA, 2021a). This is particularly relevant in Louisiana, where frequent hurricanes threaten communities. FEMA collaborates with grassroots organizations to provide emergency services, restore damaged infrastructure, and ensure public safety during and after disasters. Mission and Vision of FEMA Operational Goals and Emergency Readiness FEMA is comprised of over 20,000 professionals nationwide working collectively to manage emergency responses before, during, and after disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and health emergencies. The agency aims to reduce disaster-related risks, protect lives, and secure properties across affected regions (FEMA, 2023). For example, after Hurricane Laura devastated parts of Louisiana in 2020, FEMA initiated immediate evacuations, established emergency shelters, and distributed essential supplies such as food and water. The agency also collaborated with state and local partners to rehabilitate damaged schools, hospitals, and homes—demonstrating its ongoing commitment to rebuilding and resilience (FEMA, 2025). Provision of Equal Opportunity and Improved Quality of Life Overcoming Social, Cultural, Economic, and Physical Obstacles Hurricane Laura revealed how entrenched socioeconomic and structural challenges impede recovery efforts in coastal regions. Many residents faced evacuation difficulties due to poverty, limited healthcare access, unstable housing, and inadequate transportation. These factors delayed access to emergency services and hindered recovery (FEMA, 2022). Although FEMA endeavors to serve all populations equally, certain marginalized groups remain underserved. To address this, the agency implemented the Equity Action Plan, focusing on inclusive services, equitable distribution of aid, and collaboration with local communities. During Hurricane Laura, FEMA operated mobile disaster recovery units, shared multilingual information, and partnered with local nonprofits. However, persistent issues—like delayed aid and community distrust—highlight the need for improved outreach and infrastructure (Davis et al., 2021). Table 1 Barriers to Disaster Recovery and FEMA’s Equity Initiatives Barrier Type Examples FEMA’s Response Strategy Social & Cultural Language barriers, lack of trust in agencies Multilingual communication, community-based partnerships Economic Low-income households, job insecurity Financial assistance, equitable resource distribution Physical & Infrastructure Damaged roads, hospitals, housing Infrastructure repairs, mobile service units Health Access Limited transportation to healthcare facilities Emergency healthcare services, coordination with health agencies Impact of Funding, Policy, and Legislation Legal and Financial Framework Shaping FEMA’s Operations FEMA’s capacity to assist disaster-stricken communities relies heavily on its allocated budget, federal policy guidelines, and applicable legal frameworks. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) determines FEMA’s funding, which is critical for programs like the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and Public Assistance Grant (PAG)—both of which fund essential rebuilding and mitigation initiatives (Congressional Budget Office, 2022). Insufficient or delayed funding can significantly slow response and recovery operations. Additionally, FEMA follows the State, Local, and Tribal Mitigation Planning Policy, which requires local authorities to identify risks and propose preventive strategies. Examples include constructing stronger flood defenses and upgrading evacuation systems (Amini & Memari, 2021). FEMA’s authority also derives from the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, which supports intergovernmental coordination and insurance access. Nevertheless, low-income and non-English-speaking populations often struggle to meet eligibility requirements, hindering their access to aid (Stovall, 2021). Impact of FEMA on Community Health and Safety Collaborations with Health Systems and Public Safety Measures FEMA’s disaster response strategies prioritize public health by coordinating with federal and local health agencies. In anticipation of hurricanes along Louisiana’s coast, FEMA collaborates with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health and Social Services Recovery Support Function (HSSRSF). This partnership aims to restore public health services, maintain access to critical medications, and support emergency response staff (FEMA, 2021b). In the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, FEMA and HHS ensured emergency medical care was provided, food and water safety was maintained, and damaged healthcare facilities were rehabilitated. Nurses played a crucial role in these efforts, delivering lifesaving care such as CPR, triage, and mental health support. These professionals also helped establish disaster recovery centers that offered psychological support and continued health monitoring for affected individuals (Flaubert et al., 2021). Conclusion In conclusion, FEMA’s work in Louisiana highlights its critical role in enhancing community resilience, health, and safety in times of disaster. Through collaborations with local organizations, healthcare systems, and government agencies, FEMA supports affected populations with infrastructure repair, emergency services, and equitable recovery initiatives. However, continued challenges—including social inequities, damaged infrastructure, and public distrust—underscore the need for ongoing reforms. A more integrated and community-focused approach will further FEMA’s mission to serve and protect all individuals in disaster-prone areas. References Amini, M., & Memari, A. M. (2021). Comparative review and assessment of various flood retrofit methods for low-rise residential buildings in coastal areas. Natural Hazards Review, 22(3), 04021009. https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)nh.1527-6996.0000464 Congressional Budget Office. (2022, November). FEMA’s disaster relief fund: Budgetary history and projections. https://www.cbo.gov/publication/58420 Davis, C., Berke, P., Holloman, E., Griffard, M., Haynes, S., Johnson, E., Warraich, Z., Crisostomo-Morales, L., Golda, D., Benissan, G., Gillespy, C., Butterfield, W., & Rakes, E. (2021). Support strategies for socially marginalized neighborhoods likely impacted by natural hazards: Coastal Resilience Center. https://naturalhazardsresiliencecenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Support-Strategies-for-Socially-Marginalized-Neighborhoods-1.pdf FEMA. (2021a, January). History of FEMA. https://www.fema.gov/about/history#:~:text=Creation%20of%20FEMA FEMA. (2021b, March 18). Health and social services recovery support function. https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20210318/health-and-social-services-recovery-support-function FEMA. (2022, October). Equity. https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/national-preparedness/equity Capella FPX 4055 Assessment 2 FEMA. (2023). FEMA at a glance. https://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-glance FEMA. (2025). Hurricane Laura recovery efforts through one year. https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250602/hurricane-laura-recovery-efforts-through-one-year Flaubert, J. L., Menestrel, S. L., Williams, D. R., & Wakefield, M. K. (2021). Nurses in disaster preparedness and public health emergency response. National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK573904/ Stovall, S. (2021). Emergency management laws and mandates: What drives emergency management planning and policy? In Emergency Management Planning (pp. 91–105). https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315118345-6

Capella FPX 4055 Assessment 1 Name Capella university NURS-FPX4055 Optimizing Population Health through Community Practice Prof. Name Date Health Promotion Plan Adolescent Substance Use in Rowan County Substance misuse among adolescents aged 12 to 18 has critical implications for their physical, mental, and social development. This health promotion initiative specifically targets youth residing in Rowan County, North Carolina, with a primary focus on the towns of Landis and Salisbury. The objective is to lower substance use rates among this age group by raising awareness of potential risks, enhancing education, teaching healthy coping mechanisms, and linking adolescents to local support resources. Community Demographics and Influencing Factors Adolescent substance abuse continues to be a pressing issue within Rowan County. While the population predominantly consists of white families, teens in the area face similar social and emotional challenges experienced nationwide—such as economic instability, familial stress, and limited access to mental health services. The 2019 American Community Survey highlighted that the county’s median household income was $49,842, with food insecurity affecting 22% of residents. Moreover, only 5.6% of individuals under 19 had access to free healthcare services during that time (Rowan County, 2021). These figures underscore significant barriers to receiving adequate support, particularly due to limited transportation, financial constraints, and stigma associated with seeking care. Local data specific to teen substance use remains limited, often relying on broader national statistics. Nonetheless, the estimated local usage rate is 47.1%, with trends indicating increasing drug use among youth in rural settings (Rowan County, 2021). These findings reveal an urgent need for tailored, culturally sensitive education and prevention strategies that respond to the community’s unique needs and barriers. Community Profile and Relation to Adolescent Needs Characteristics of the Target Population The intended audience for this health promotion plan comprises adolescents aged 12 to 18 living in Rowan County, a predominantly rural region located in North Carolina’s Piedmont area. Similar to other rural counties, Rowan experiences multiple systemic barriers that hinder youth development—particularly regarding substance use. Adolescents living in low-income households are at greater risk due to reduced access to health and social services, employment opportunities, and mental health care. Local schools often lack adequate funding to implement effective prevention and education programs. Limited public transportation further complicates access to essential services, especially behavioral health support designed for youth. As a result, many teenagers experience isolation and psychological stress, increasing their vulnerability to substance misuse. Education attainment levels are also lower in this region, narrowing opportunities for socioeconomic improvement and resilience building. These concerns reflect broader patterns of adolescent substance use observed throughout rural North Carolina and across the U.S. According to the Rural Health Information Hub (2024), youth in rural regions face a heightened risk of substance use due to scarce preventive programs and healthcare resources. Therefore, understanding local obstacles can guide the creation of more impactful health promotion strategies tailored to adolescent needs. Substance Abuse Prevention Significance Addressing Local Health Risks Substance use among Rowan County adolescents poses considerable threats to individual health and community well-being. Consistent with national findings, youth in rural areas like Rowan are more likely to experiment with or develop dependencies on alcohol and drugs compared to their urban peers (Lee et al., 2024). Early use can contribute to academic struggles, risky behaviors, co-occurring mental health conditions, and chronic illness in adulthood. Socioeconomic disparities, family instability, and limited access to health education contribute to elevated substance use rates in the region. Although comprehensive data on local teen use is scarce, existing evidence shows that structural challenges—such as lack of culturally appropriate care and trained mental health professionals—exacerbate these risks. Stigma and mistrust in healthcare systems further discourage adolescents from seeking help (Mardani et al., 2023). Effective prevention requires combining education, peer support, and community engagement. Programs designed to reflect local values and experiences in towns like Landis and Salisbury are more likely to resonate with youth. Respectful and inclusive promotion strategies can empower teens to make informed decisions, develop coping skills, and foster a healthier, more resilient community. SMART Health Goals for Substance Abuse Prevention Case-Based Planning and Evaluation Jason Miller, a 14-year-old from Landis, serves as a case example to inform the design of prevention strategies. Jason’s family recently experienced a separation, leading him to feelings of isolation and experimentation with substances. Noticing changes in his behavior and academic performance, school staff connected Jason to a local youth program that offers counseling and preventive services. This situation illustrates the need for goal-driven, evidence-based interventions to support vulnerable teens. The following SMART goals were developed to structure a one-hour educational session for adolescents like Jason. These goals aim to improve knowledge, encourage open communication, and teach coping techniques. Session outcomes will be measured through pre- and post-surveys to assess effectiveness. SMART Goals Table SMART Goal Description Goal 1: Increase Risk Awareness Specific: By session end, 85% of participants (including Jason) will identify four health risks associated with substance use (e.g., addiction, mental illness, academic decline, accidents).Measurable: A post-session quiz will assess comprehension.Achievable: Delivered through visual media, discussions, and group activities.Relevant: Builds foundational knowledge for informed choices.Time-bound: Assessed immediately after the one-hour session. Goal 2: Encourage Dialogue Specific: At least 60% of participants will report intent to engage in at least one discussion about substance use with peers, family, or staff.Measurable: Tracked through survey responses.Achievable: Reinforced with role-playing and handouts.Relevant: Strengthens support networks.Time-bound: Evaluated at session conclusion. Goal 3: Teach Coping Skills Specific: Participants will learn and demonstrate two stress-reduction techniques (e.g., deep breathing, mindfulness).Measurable: Confidence and skill application will be assessed via survey.Achievable: Practiced during the session with guidance.Relevant: Promotes healthier alternatives to substance use.Time-bound: Measured at the end of the session. Conclusion Adolescent substance abuse in Rowan County is a multifaceted issue requiring culturally informed, community-based solutions. This health promotion plan addresses the specific needs of local youth by enhancing risk awareness, fostering open communication, and building essential life skills. Tailored interventions, grounded in the region’s unique demographic and socioeconomic challenges, can significantly reduce substance use and improve overall adolescent