COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSING (Lecture)

BSN 2-A A.Y. 2023-2024

NAME: Tolosa, John Uzziel G.

COURSE, YEAR & SECTION: BSN 2-A

LESSON: 1 - ACTIVITY: 1 “Getting To Know”

A. Public Health
Public health is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses the organized efforts
and strategies aimed at protecting, promoting, and improving the health and well-being
of entire communities and populations. It involves a wide range of activities, including
disease prevention, health education, research, policy development, and emergency
response, all with the overarching goal of achieving optimal health outcomes and
reducing health disparities among diverse groups of people. Public health professionals
work to identify and address health threats, promote healthy behaviors, create equitable
access to healthcare, and ensure the overall health and resilience of societies at local,
national, and global levels.

B. Community Health
Community health is a branch of public health that centers on the well-being and
healthcare needs of specific geographic areas or communities, often at the local or
regional level. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to health promotion, disease
prevention, and the provision of healthcare services tailored to the unique needs and
challenges of a particular community.

This field involves assessing the health status of the community, identifying its health
priorities, and developing and implementing strategies to address these priorities.
Community health professionals collaborate with local residents, healthcare providers,
government agencies, and community organizations to improve access to healthcare
services, promote healthy behaviors, and create conditions that support overall well-
being within the community.

In essence, community health is about working together to enhance the health and
quality of life of a specific group of people living in a defined area, with a focus on
preventing illness, promoting health equity, and ensuring that healthcare services are
accessible and responsive to the community's needs.

C. Public Health Nursing

Public Health Nursing is a specialized field within nursing that concentrates on
promoting and protecting the health of entire populations or communities, rather than
just individual patients. Public Health Nurses work to prevent diseases, improve health
outcomes, and address health disparities within communities.
 Public Health Nurses play a crucial role in bridging the gap between healthcare
systems and communities, focusing on prevention and population-based health rather
than solely on clinical care. Their efforts contribute to healthier communities and
improved overall public health outcomes.

D. Community Health Nursing

Community Health Nursing is a specialized field of nursing that concentrates on
the provision of healthcare services to individuals, families, and communities within a
specific geographic area. Community health nurses work within the context of the
community, addressing the unique healthcare needs and challenges of that population.
In essence, Community Health Nursing is about delivering culturally sensitive,
community-based healthcare that meets the needs of populations in their own
environments. It plays a vital role in improving the health and well-being of communities,
preventing diseases, and reducing healthcare disparities.

E. Standards of Public Health Nursing in the Philippines

The standards of Public Health Nursing in the Philippines are guided by various
laws, regulations, and professional organizations. It's important to note that standards
and guidelines can change over time;

1.) Professional Regulation: Public Health Nurses in the Philippines are licensed and
regulated by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board of
Nursing. To practice as a Public Health Nurse, individuals must pass the
Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination.

2.) Philippine Nursing Act of 2002: The practice of nursing in the Philippines is
governed by the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9173). This law
outlines the scope of nursing practice, including Public Health Nursing, and sets
the standards for education, examination, and licensure of nurses.

3.) Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses: Public Health Nurses are expected to
adhere to the Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses, which is established by the
Professional Regulatory Board of Nursing. This code provides ethical guidelines
for nursing practice in the Philippines.

4.) Philippine Nurses Association (PNA): The Philippine Nurses Association is the
professional organization for nurses in the country. PNA may provide additional
standards, guidelines, and resources specific to Public Health Nursing.

5.) Public Health Programs and Initiatives: Public Health Nurses play a vital role in
implementing and supporting public health programs and initiatives established
by the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines. These programs address
various health issues, including maternal and child health, immunization, disease
prevention, and health promotion.
 6.) Continuing Education: Like nurses in many countries, Public Health Nurses in the
Philippines are expected to engage in continuous professional development and
education to stay updated with the latest practices, research, and innovations in
the field of public health.

It's essential for Public Health Nurses in the Philippines to stay informed about
the latest guidelines, standards, and regulations related to their practice, as these may
evolve to address emerging health challenges and changing healthcare needs within the
country. Additionally, local health authorities and specific healthcare institutions may
have their own guidelines and standards that Public Health Nurses are required to
follow.

F. Evolution/History of Public Health Nursing in the Philippines

The evolution and history of Public Health Nursing in the Philippines reflect the
country's efforts to address public health challenges, promote community well-being, and
provide accessible healthcare services to its diverse population. Here is a significant
overview of the evolution of Public Health Nursing in the Philippines:

1.) Early Beginnings: Public Health Nursing in the Philippines can be traced back to
the early 20th century, influenced by American nursing practices and the
experiences of American public health nurses. The American colonial period
(1898-1946) played a significant role in introducing modern nursing and public
health concepts.

2.) Foundation and Training: Public Health Nursing education and practice began to
take shape during the early 1900s. The establishment of schools of nursing, such
as the University of the Philippines College of Nursing, played a crucial role in
training nurses for public health roles. Filipino nurses were also sent to the
United States for advanced training in public health nursing.

3.) Pre-World War II: Public Health Nursing services expanded during this period,
with nurses primarily focused on maternal and child health, hygiene, and
sanitation. Their work often involved providing education to communities,
conducting home visits, and addressing the high maternal and child mortality
rates.

4.) Post-World War II: After World War II, there was a significant increase in the
number of public health nurses as the country focused on rebuilding and
strengthening its healthcare infrastructure. Public Health Nursing services
expanded to include immunization campaigns, disease prevention, and efforts to
control communicable diseases.
 5.) 1970s and 1980s: During this period, Public Health Nursing in the Philippines
witnessed the development of specialized programs, including family planning
services, community-based health programs, and initiatives to address
malnutrition and primary healthcare.

6.) Alma Ata Declaration (1978): The Alma Ata Declaration on Primary Health Care,
which the Philippines endorsed, emphasized the importance of community health
and primary healthcare as essential components of public health. This
declaration further influenced the role of Public Health Nursing in the country.

7.) Health Reforms: The Philippines implemented various health reforms over the
years, such as the creation of the Department of Health (DOH) in 1973, which
played a central role in shaping public health policies and programs. Public
Health Nurses became integral to the DOH's efforts in community health and
healthcare delivery.

8.) Contemporary Public Health Nursing: In recent years, Public Health Nursing in
the Philippines has evolved to address contemporary public health challenges,
including non-communicable diseases, mental health, disaster preparedness and
response, and health promotion and education. Public Health Nurses continue to
be at the forefront of health promotion, disease prevention, and health equity
efforts.

9.) Challenges and Innovations: Public Health Nursing in the Philippines faces
challenges related to resource constraints, unequal access to healthcare, and
addressing the healthcare needs of diverse populations. However, innovative
approaches, community partnerships, and international collaborations continue to
shape the practice and future of Public Health Nursing in the country.

Throughout its history, Public Health Nursing in the Philippines has played a vital role in
improving the health and well-being of communities and populations, aligning with global
public health principles and initiatives while addressing the unique healthcare needs of
the Filipino people.

G. Roles and Responsibilities of a Community Health Nurse

Community health nurses play a crucial role in promoting and improving the
health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Their work is focused on
providing healthcare services, health education, and preventive care within the
community setting. Here are the significant roles and responsibilities of a community
health nurse:

1.) Assessment of Community Health Needs: Community health nurses assess the health
status and healthcare needs of the community they serve. This involves collecting data
 on health trends, identifying health disparities, and understanding the social
determinants of health within the community.

2.) Health Promotion and Education: They develop and implement health promotion
programs and educational campaigns to raise awareness about healthy behaviors,
disease prevention, and the importance of regular healthcare check-ups. This includes
providing information on topics like nutrition, exercise, immunization, and family
planning.

3.) Disease Prevention: Community health nurses work to prevent the spread of diseases
through initiatives such as vaccination campaigns, monitoring disease outbreaks, and
implementing infection control measures. They also educate individuals and
communities about disease prevention strategies.

4.) Healthcare Access: They help individuals and families access healthcare services by
providing information about available resources, assisting with appointments, and
facilitating referrals to medical professionals or specialists.

5.) Maternal and Child Health: Community health nurses play a vital role in maternal and
child health, including prenatal care, postnatal care, and well-child visits. They provide
guidance on proper nutrition, safe parenting practices, and family planning options.

6.) Chronic Disease Management: They support individuals with chronic conditions, such as
diabetes, hypertension, or asthma, by helping them manage their health through
medication management, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring.

7.) Home Visits: Conducting home visits to assess living conditions, provide care to
individuals who may be homebound, and ensure that the home environment is
conducive to health and safety.

8.) Emergency Preparedness: Community health nurses prepare communities for public
health emergencies and disasters, develop emergency response plans, and provide
immediate healthcare assistance during crises.

9.) Advocacy: They advocate for the healthcare needs and rights of the community, working
to ensure that vulnerable populations receive equitable access to healthcare services
and addressing social determinants of health.

10.) Data Collection and Reporting: Community health nurses gather and maintain
health-related data, which is essential for tracking health trends, evaluating the
effectiveness of health programs, and making informed decisions about resource
allocation.
11.) Collaboration: They collaborate with other healthcare professionals, community
organizations, local government agencies, and schools to address health issues
comprehensively and coordinate care for individuals and families.

12.) Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting the cultural beliefs and
practices of the community they serve to provide culturally competent care and health
education.

13.) Community Engagement: Engaging with community members to build trust,

understand their needs, and involve them in the planning and implementation of health
programs and initiatives.

Community health nurses play a vital role in bridging the gap between healthcare
systems and communities. Their work is essential for improving the overall health and
well-being of communities, reducing health disparities, and ensuring that healthcare
services are accessible and responsive to the specific needs of the population they
serve.