Select one of the following discussion questions below. Post a substantive initial response with references
Option 1: The emphasis on public health in nursing has varied and changed over time. Given what you’ve read about the critical issues that nursing can address, what priorities would you set for the work of contemporary public health nurses and why?
Option 2: Define each of the following so everyone will have a better understanding of roles in Public Health PH:
a. The core functions of public health
b. The specialist in Public Health Nursing (PHN)
c. The nurse whose practice is community-based
Option 2: Roles in Public Health Nursing (PHN)
a. The Core Functions of Public Health
Public health is centered around three core functions: assessment, policy development, and assurance.
- Assessment involves the systematic collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on the health of a community. This includes identifying health needs, monitoring health status, and investigating health problems.
- Policy Development involves using scientific knowledge to create public health policies that support the health of the population. It includes educating and mobilizing community partnerships to address health issues.
- Assurance ensures that public health services are provided to the community, either by encouraging actions by other entities (such as the private sector), requiring action through regulation, or providing services directly. This function also includes ensuring a competent public health workforce and evaluating the effectiveness of public health interventions.
b. The Specialist in Public Health Nursing (PHN)
A specialist in Public Health Nursing (PHN) is a registered nurse who focuses on the health of populations rather than individuals. PHNs work to improve community health by:
- Assessing health needs at the population level.
- Developing and implementing programs that address identified health issues.
- Collaborating with community partners to promote healthy environments and behaviors.
- Advocating for policies that improve public health.
PHNs often engage in activities such as health education, disease prevention, and policy advocacy, and they work in various settings, including government agencies, schools, and community organizations.
c. The Nurse Whose Practice is Community-Based
A nurse whose practice is community-based focuses on delivering healthcare services in community settings rather than in hospitals or clinics. These nurses:
- Provide care to individuals and families within the community.
- Work on health promotion, disease prevention, and managing chronic conditions.
- Focus on accessible and culturally appropriate care tailored to the community’s needs.
Community-based nurses often work in home health care, school health, occupational health, and community clinics, where they play a crucial role in connecting individuals with broader health and social services.
Conclusion
Each role within public health nursing plays a critical part in promoting the health and well-being of communities. The core functions of public health provide a foundation for systematic health improvements, while the specialist in PHN and the community-based nurse offer targeted interventions to address specific health needs at both the population and individual levels. These roles are vital in adapting to the evolving health challenges faced by contemporary society.
References:
- American Public Health Association. (2021). The Definition and Practice of Public Health Nursing: A Statement of the Public Health Nursing Section. Retrieved from APHA
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014). The Public Health System & the 10 Essential Public Health Services. Retrieved from CDC
- Stanhope, M., & Lancaster, J. (2020). Public Health Nursing: Population-Centered Health Care in the Community (10th ed.). Elsevier.