Module Components

• Overview

Topics

• Definitions
• Epidemiologic Frameworks
• Communicable and Emerging Infectious Diseases
• Role of the Public Health Nurse

Nurs 467 - Public Health Nursing

Module 4: Epidemiology, Communicable Disease and Emerging Infectious Diseases

Role of the Public Health Nurse

The ANA (2013) states that PHNs must be proficient in the use of epidemiologic tools in order to perform effective assessments, which is the first standard of PHN practice. Epidemiology appears again in Standard 5B (Health Teaching and Health Promotion). In this standard, the PHN is expected to use epidemiological principles when designing health teaching interventions and programs.

How do we deal with communicable and emerging diseases from a public health standpoint? Surveillance at multiple levels is key, as is early prevention and control measures if an investigation indicates a surge. Continued monitoring and evaluation is also necessary, even after the disease is under control.

When dealing with communicable and infectious diseases, PHNs must learn to balance the safety of the entire population with the rights of an individual. In general, protecting the population from a dangerous or deadly disease takes precedence over individual rights. Sometimes the situations are clear cut – think about how we isolate patients with active TB to protect others. State laws clearly outline the steps that can be taken to ensure compliance with TB treatment in the community, including required exams, treatment and possible quarantine. However, other times the right answer isn’t always evident. Remember the nurse in New Jersey that was quarantined for Ebola after returning from Africa? That was a complex and unfamiliar situation for many public health officials.

The PHN’s role is to maintain adequate knowledge of relevant communicable and emerging diseases, practice infection control, lead and participate in investigations and surveillance, advocate for sensible policies, enforce existing laws and practice prevention at all levels. Primary prevention includes health teaching to reduce risky behavior, promoting immunizations, and advocating for adequate living conditions (sanitation, ventilation). Secondary prevention includes the development and promotion of responsible screening programs, health teaching on early recognition of symptoms and compliance with legal requirements. Tertiary prevention includes compassionate and effective treatment, with attention to long-term needs.