Which is the primary goal of community health nursing?

• A. To support and supplement the efforts of the medical profession in the promotion of health and prevention of disease
• B. To enhance the capacity of individuals, families and communities to cope with their health needs
• C. To increase the productivity of the people by providing them with services that will increase their level of health
• D. To contribute to national development through promotion of family welfare, focusing particularly on mothers and child

Answer: (B)

The main idea is empowering people to take control of their own health. The primary goal of community health nursing is to enhance the capacity of individuals, families, and communities to cope with their health needs by boosting health literacy, building skills, and connecting people with resources and preventive services. This approach emphasizes participation, prevention, and sustainable improvements that communities can maintain over time, rather than just delivering care or focusing on a narrow group.

Collaborating with the medical profession happens, but the broader aim is not simply to supplement clinicians; it’s about enabling communities to address health themselves. Focusing on productivity through health services describes a potential outcome rather than the guiding purpose. Narrowly promoting family welfare for mothers and children is important, but community health nursing targets health needs across the whole population and all ages.