The Evolving Role Of Community Health Nurses: A Review Of Strategies And Outcomes In Population Health Management

Abstract

The role of community health nurses is evolving to address complex, multi-causal community problems through a community participatory health promotion model. This approach emphasizes collaboration with agencies and community members to identify and address health needs, empowering communities to take ownership of their health. Community health nurses are developing new competencies, such as community assessment, partnership building, health education, advocacy, and research, to effectively engage in community participatory health promoting roles. They work to promote health equity and social justice, addressing social determinants of health and leveraging their unique knowledge and skills to drive positive change. As the healthcare landscape continues to shift, community health nurses are adapting to meet the changing needs of communities, playing a vital role in promoting health and preventing disease. Public health nursing (PHN) practice has undergone significant transformations since its inception. Initially focused on sick care, PHN roles have expanded to encompass advocacy, community organizing, health education, and political and social reform. This article examines the evolving roles of PHNs in addressing complex, multi-causal community problems through a community participatory health promotion model. A case study on youth substance use prevention in a rural county illustrates the application of this model, highlighting the competencies required for PHNs to effectively engage in community participatory health promoting roles. The role of community health nurses is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving to address the complex and dynamic health needs of communities. Community health nurses are now expected to adopt a community participatory health promotion approach, collaborating with communities to identify and address health needs, and empowering them to take ownership of their health. This requires expanded competencies, including community assessment, partnership building, health education, advocacy, and research. Community health nurses must also prioritize health equity and social justice, addressing the social determinants of health and promoting equitable access to healthcare. Interdisciplinary collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including community members, agencies, and organizations, is crucial to leverage resources and expertise. Furthermore, community health nurses are shifting from individual-focused care to population-focused care, addressing the unique needs of communities through community-based research, advocacy, and policy development. By developing cultural competence and building partnerships, community health nurses can effectively work with diverse communities, providing health education and promotion initiatives to empower informed decision-making. Ultimately, the evolving role of community health nurses is critical in driving positive change and promoting health equity and social justice.