A community health nurse has been asked by a faith-based organization to develop a mobile meal program for older adults who no longer drive.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?

Choice A rationale

Identifying alternative solutions to address concerns is an important step in any project. However, it is not the first step in developing a mobile meal program for older adults who no longer drive. The first step should be to understand the needs of the target population, which can be achieved through a needs assessment.

Choice B rationale

Determining potential funding sources for the program is indeed a crucial aspect of planning. However, before seeking funding, it is essential to understand what needs to be funded, which comes from performing a needs assessment.

Choice C rationale

Inquiring about the availability of volunteers is a significant part of implementing the program. Volunteers could be responsible for meal preparation, delivery, or other tasks. However, the availability of volunteers does not determine the necessity or structure of the program.

Choice D rationale

Performing a needs assessment is the first step in developing a program. A needs assessment involves determining the extent of the need for a service in a particular population. In this case, it would involve determining how many older adults in the community no longer drive and would benefit from a mobile meal program.

The correct answer is Choice A

Choice A rationale: The statement "I know that everything will be better soon" can indicate a risk for suicide as it may reflect a sense of hopelessness and a belief that death is the only solution to their suffering. This requires immediate attention.

Choice B rationale: Expressing a desire to maintain control over decision-making does not necessarily indicate a risk for suicide. It reflects a concern about autonomy and independence, which is common among individuals with chronic illnesses.

Choice C rationale: Relying more on a partner for support suggests that the client is seeking help and building a support system. This does not indicate a risk for suicide but rather a positive coping mechanism to manage their condition.

Choice D rationale: Fear of experiencing pain near the end is a common concern for individuals with terminal illnesses. While it indicates anxiety about the future, it does not necessarily suggest a risk for suicide. Addressing pain management can help alleviate this fear.