Which initiative focuses on preventing disease and improving health, with patient teaching of healthy behaviors as a key nursing competency?

• A. Healthy People 2020
• B. World Health Organization Global Health Goals
• C. National Institute of Health Initiatives
• D. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Campaign

Answer: (A)

Preventing disease and improving health through patient education is a central aim of public health efforts that guide nursing practice. Healthy People 2020 is the U.S. government framework that sets national objectives to boost overall health and prevent illness. It emphasizes health promotion, disease prevention, and teaching individuals and communities to adopt healthier behaviors, which directly aligns with how nurses educate patients and support behavior change as part of care. This makes it the best fit because it provides a structured plan focused on education and measurable health outcomes at the national level. The World Health Organization’s global goals operate on an international scale and aren’t tied to a single national nursing practice framework; NIH initiatives concentrate on research rather than a broad public health promotion plan; CDC campaigns are targeted disease-prevention efforts rather than a comprehensive, education-centered national strategy.