Which nurse is noted for working with tenants to improve life in densely populated areas?

• A. Lillian Wald
• B. Mary Mahoney
• C. Jessie Sleet Scales
• D. Mary Seacole

Answer: (A)

Working with tenants to improve life in densely populated areas reflects the approach of public health nursing and the settlement-house movement. Lillian Wald founded the Henry Street Settlement in New York City, bringing visiting nurse services directly into crowded tenement neighborhoods and linking healthcare with social support, education, and community resources. This model focused on improving living conditions in urban slums—addressing issues like sanitation, infant care, disease prevention, and child welfare by going into homes and communities rather than waiting for people to come to a hospital. While the other nurses made significant contributions in areas such as racial equality and care for marginalized populations, the emphasis on organizing and delivering care within tenement communities points to Wald.