Please, answer the questions below: 1. Analyze the roots of public health nursing. Explain its influence on practice today. Follow the 3 x 3 rule: minimum three paragraphs per DQ, with a minimum of three sentences each paragraph. All answers or discussions comments submitted must be in APA format according to Publication Manual American Psychological Association (APA) (6th ed.) 2009 ISBN: 978-1-4338-0561-5 Minimum of two references, not older than 2015. Provide plagiarism report
The roots of public health nursing can be traced back to the late 19th century when efforts were made to improve the health of communities and prevent the spread of disease. One of the key figures in the development of public health nursing was Lillian Wald, who founded the Henry Street Settlement in New York City in 1893. Wald and her colleagues provided healthcare and social services to immigrant communities, recognizing the importance of addressing the social determinants of health in order to improve the overall well-being of individuals and communities. This approach to nursing practice laid the foundation for the development of public health nursing as a distinct specialty.
The influence of public health nursing on practice today can be seen in several key areas. First, public health nurses continue to focus on the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly those who are marginalized or underserved. This includes individuals who may face barriers to accessing healthcare, such as low-income individuals, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals with limited English proficiency. Public health nurses work to identify the unique needs of these populations and develop strategies to address them, including collaborating with community partners to improve access to healthcare services and advocating for policies that promote health equity.
Second, public health nursing emphasizes the importance of prevention and health promotion. Rather than solely focusing on treating individuals who are already sick, public health nurses work to identify and address the root causes of health problems in order to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This may involve conducting screenings and assessments to identify individuals at risk for certain health conditions, implementing interventions to prevent disease and promote healthy behaviors, and educating individuals and communities about the importance of maintaining good health. For example, public health nurses may provide education on nutrition and physical activity to prevent obesity or offer vaccinations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Third, public health nursing recognizes the importance of collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork in addressing complex public health issues. Public health nurses often work as part of multidisciplinary teams, which may include physicians, social workers, epidemiologists, and other healthcare professionals, to develop and implement comprehensive strategies to improve population health. This collaborative approach allows for a more holistic understanding of health problems and enables interventions to be tailored to the specific needs of communities. For example, public health nurses may work with community organizations and local government agencies to develop policies and programs that promote safe housing, access to healthy food, and opportunities for physical activity.
In conclusion, public health nursing has its roots in the late 19th century efforts to improve the health of communities and prevent the spread of disease. The influence of public health nursing on practice today can be seen in its focus on vulnerable populations, its emphasis on prevention and health promotion, and its commitment to collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork. By addressing the social determinants of health, preventing disease, and working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, public health nurses play a vital role in promoting the health and well-being of individuals and communities.