What is the primary focus of public health nursing?

The primary focus of public health nursing is on the health of communities as a whole. This nursing specialty emphasizes promoting and protecting the health of populations rather than concentrating solely on individual patients. Public health nurses work to identify health trends, develop educational programs, and implement interventions that benefit the entire community, considering social determinants of health and the unique needs of various population groups.

In contrast, the health of individuals, while important, is typically more aligned with clinical nursing practices that focus on patient assessments, diagnoses, and treatments. The health of global populations reflects a broader perspective but is often encompassed within community health initiatives rather than the specific focus of public health nursing. Lastly, while healthcare workers' health is essential, public health nursing emphasizes broader community health outcomes, making it less aligned with the specific health of healthcare professionals.