This foundational assessment is the critical first step in the public health nursing cycle. It requires students to act as a public health detective, identifying a significant health problem within a specific community. The core of this assessment involves a deep analysis of the problem's root causes by examining the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). Students will articulate the problem's impact and evaluate existing resources, thereby building a compelling, evidence-based case for a future intervention. By mastering this assessment, nurses demonstrate their ability to move beyond individual care to a population-based perspective, which is crucial for promoting health equity and wellness on a larger scale.