Partnership for Healthier Rural Communities

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to assess the health status of residents of a small rural community with limited health resources while providing a teaching-learning environment that increases students' knowledge and skills relative to nursing in a rural community. Twenty-two men, 45 women, and six children participated in a one-day health fair sponsored by a school of nursing. Results indicated that participants need assistance with health promotion in several areas: weight loss/obesity, blood sugar control, lowering cholesterol levels, vision and hearing follow-up, and further screening and possible treatment for depression. Students who conducted the health fair were asked to complete a short questionnaire examining their beliefs related to the usefulness of the health fair. Responses were generally positive; however, some students rated the health fair negatively. Recommendations are given for concentrated follow-up with the study participants as well as suggestions for increasing student assessment of the usefulness of this activity.

Strategies for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Rural Southern African American Communities

“…The results indicated that participants need assistance with health promotion in several areas: weight loss/obesity, blood sugar control, lowering cholesterol levels, vision and hearing follow-up, etc. (Lyons et al, 2001). …”