community health nursing

Nurses Roles and Obligations in Population Focused Care The Bachelor’s Prepared Nurse and Population Health Recognizing the additional knowledge nurses need to function in the role of Community and Public Health nursing, the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the majority of states now require a minimum of a BS in nursing for nurses to practice as C-PHNs. This in part is because C-PHNs need to be ready to act as activist, advocate, counselor, case manager, partner, collaborator, educator, and researcher within the community setting and with and Interprofessional team, and have knowledge of population health. The C-PHN is valued for their adaptability and willingness to provide care in many settings, including community health clinics, churches, homeless shelters, and schools. Undertaking a variety of roles C-PHNs are developing interventions for vulnerable and at-risk individuals, families, and communities, and coordinating services for people in need within the community. The Future Health care in the United States is moving from ‘sick care’ to preventive health with a focus on communities and populations. Although, areas such as access to care, quality, and cost continue to be barriers for many, changes are occurring. Amid these challenges, it is the responsibility of all nurses to improve health outcomes and expand the infrastructure for monitoring and managing diseases, addressing access to care, reaching out to the disadvantaged and vulnerable, and improving the quality of care to all people. Return to the course to post your thoughts on the reading and resources. How do you see your role in community and public nursing? References: Lundy, K. S., & Janes, S. (2009). Community health nursing: Caring for the public's health (2nd ed.). Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Stanhope, M., & Lancaster, J. (2014). Public health nursing: Population-centered health care in the community (8th ed.). Maryland Heights, MO: Elsevier Mosby