Explain how your view of what a “patient” is has changed and expanded? What are some major differences between the assessment of a public health nurse and a clinical nurse? Your initial posting should be 400 words in length and utilize at least one scholarly source other than the textbook
The concept of what a “patient” is has evolved and expanded over time as healthcare systems and practices have evolved. Traditional notions of a patient view them as individuals seeking care in a clinical setting for the treatment of illness or injury. However, with the emergence of public health nursing and the broader focus on preventive and population-based healthcare, the definition of a patient has become more inclusive and comprehensive.
In the context of public health nursing, a patient encompasses not only individuals seeking care but also communities and populations as a whole. Public health nurses adopt a population-based approach, where the focus is on promoting and safeguarding the health of entire communities and populations. This broader view acknowledges that the health and well-being of individuals are influenced by various social, economic, and environmental factors, and that addressing these determinants is crucial to improving health outcomes at a broader level.
As a result, the traditional “patient” is no longer limited to individuals seeking treatment for specific illnesses or injuries. In public health nursing, patients can be communities, groups, or populations affected by health issues or at risk of developing certain conditions. The approach is proactive rather than reactive, with the aim of preventing diseases and promoting health rather than focusing solely on treatment.
One major difference between the assessment of a public health nurse and a clinical nurse is the scope of assessment. Clinical nursing typically focuses on the individual patient and involves a detailed assessment of their physical, mental, and emotional health. The assessment is based on the patient’s presenting symptoms, medical history, and the healthcare provider’s expertise.
In contrast, the assessment of a public health nurse takes into consideration the broader determinants of health and the needs of the community or population. It involves a comprehensive assessment of the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes. This assessment may include analyzing demographic data, identifying health disparities, assessing community resources, and identifying risk factors for specific health issues.
Another difference is the focus of intervention. Clinical nursing interventions are primarily aimed at providing direct patient care, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of illnesses or injuries. The goal is to alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and improve the patient’s overall well-being. Clinical nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings and interact directly with patients.
On the other hand, public health nursing interventions are focused on promoting health and preventing diseases at a population level. Interventions may include health education programs, immunization campaigns, policy advocacy, and collaboration with various stakeholders to address social determinants of health. Public health nurses often work in community settings, schools, or government agencies and collaborate with community leaders, policymakers, and other healthcare professionals.
The roles and responsibilities of public health nurses and clinical nurses also differ. Clinical nurses typically provide direct patient care, administer medications, monitor vital signs, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of individual patients. In contrast, public health nurses have a broader role that involves assessing community needs, planning and implementing health programs, evaluating outcomes, and advocating for policy changes that promote health equity.
In conclusion, the concept of a “patient” has expanded in the field of nursing, particularly in the context of public health nursing. The traditional view of a patient as an individual seeking treatment in a clinical setting has been broadened to include communities and populations as a whole. Public health nurses adopt a population-based approach and focus on promoting health and preventing diseases at a broader level. The assessment and intervention strategies of public health nurses differ from those of clinical nurses, with the former encompassing a comprehensive evaluation of social, economic, and environmental factors and interventions aimed at promoting health and preventing diseases in populations.