Public health nursing is a unique clinical practice area within the nursing profession, not because of where it is practiced, but because of what it is: a synthesis of nursing theories and public health principles and practices. It is both a philosophy and a system of services. Nursing activities are divided into three fundamental levels of service: to the individual, to the family, and to the community.
We focus mainly on health promotion and control of diseases which are major public health nursing functions. We foster and empower individuals, families and communities to adopt healthy lifestyles.
Public health nursing is a distinctive field of practice that includes nurses prepared as generalists and nurses prepared as public health specialists, both of whom practice in various settings. All public health nurses should have a background in social and behavioral sciences, epidemiology, statistics, environmental health, current treatment modalities, and health care options, as well as public health science and principles. Preparation for specialization in community health practice occurs through formal academic preparation at the master's level.
Public health nurses work in a variety of settings, such as federal, state and local government agencies, workplaces and industries, schools, day care and outreach centers, correctional facilities and hospital discharge planning. Public health nurses are valuable to employers because we are able to assess population groups, identify and prioritize health needs, and develop programs and evaluate their effectiveness.
Our mission/purpose is detailed here.
We have formed a continuing partnership with the Liaison of Maryland Nurse Organizations (LMNO) which includes the Maryland Nurse Association and the Council of Public Health Nursing Directors. Other activities include collecting resources on public health nursing, coordinating nurse speakers for a regional public health forum held in April each year, keeping abreast of public health policy, conducting a recruitment drive, and coordinating a state-wide effort to recognize Maryland nurse leaders working toward goals relating to public health.
At the Annual MdPHA Meeting, we present up to four [public health nursing awards][http://www.mdpha.org/MDPHA/phn-awards.html]: the Ruth B. Freeman Award, the M. Frances Etchberger Award, the Public Health Nursing Student Award, and a Special Recognition Award for Parrish Nursing.
Our current members work in the fields of home health, correctional health, injury prevention, maternal-child health, tertiary care, nursing administration, education and research. Employment settings include governmental and private agencies.
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