Public health nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who work to promote and protect the health of communities. They work in various settings, from government agencies and schools to non-profit organizations and healthcare facilities. These nurses focus on improving public health outcomes through education, advocacy, and direct care.
If you're passionate about community health and looking to make a difference on a larger scale, consider a career as a public health nurse. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive approach to becoming a public health nurse and offer tips for success in this gratifying career.
Understanding the role of a public health nurse
Before pursuing the path to becoming a public health nurse, it’s important to understand what this role involves. Some duties of a public health nurse include:
- Educating communities about health issues and preventive care
- Organizing and leading health education campaigns on topics like vaccination, nutrition, and chronic disease management
- Advocating for health policies that promote public health.
- Collaborating with local government agencies, non-profits, and stakeholders to influence health policy decisions
- Addressing health disparities by focusing on underserved and at-risk populations
- Coordinating community resources and services to improve overall health outcomes
- Conducting research to identify health trends and effective interventions
Step 1: Obtain a nursing degree
Your first step in becoming a public health nurse is to first become an RN. This requires completing an accredited nursing program. There are three educational paths to consider:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A two-year program that provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for nursing practice. It's a quicker route to becoming an RN but may limit career advancement opportunities compared to a bachelor's degree.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A four-year program that offers a more comprehensive education in nursing, including public health, leadership, and research.
- Accelerated BSN Programs: Intended for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another area, these programs typically take 12-to-18 months to complete.
Nursing programs include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. Courses relevant to public health nursing include:
- Community health
- Epidemiology
- Health promotion and disease prevention
- Environmental health
- Nursing leadership and management
Clinical rotations provide hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, including community health clinics and public health departments.
Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
Once you’ve completed your nursing degree, you must then take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your RN license. The exam tests your knowledge and skills in nursing practice, including areas relevant to public health.
Step 3: Gain hands-on nursing experience
While some public health nursing positions are open to new graduates, gaining experience in general nursing practice can be beneficial. Working in hospital settings, community health clinics, and other healthcare environments helps you develop essential nursing skills and gain exposure to diverse patient populations.
Step 4: Pursue specialized education and certification
For those seeking advanced roles in public health nursing, obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Master of Public Health (MPH) can be advantageous. These programs offer specialized coursework and training in public health principles, policy, and leadership. Some programs offer dual MSN/MPH degrees, providing a comprehensive education in both nursing and public health.
Previously, interested nurses could pursue a certification specifically for public health nurses — the Advanced Public Health Nursing Certification (PHNA-BC). But that certification has been now retired by the ANCC and is only available for renewal..
However, nurses interested in public health can explore the following options for certification in public health:
- Certified in Public Health (CPH): Administered by the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE), this credential exhibits an understanding and dedication to the field of public health.
- Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES): Offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NHCEH), this credential demonstrates an expertise in the field of health education and can be a great option for public health nurses.
Step 5: Apply for public health nursing positions
When searching for job opportunities, consider the type of work environment and patient population you want to serve. Job boards, like the Nurse.com talent marketplace, professional nursing organizations, such as the American Nurses Association, and networking can help you find openings in your desired area.
Public health nurses can work in the following settings:
- Local and state health departments
- Community health centers
- Non-profit organizations
- Schools and universities
- Government agencies
- International health organizations
When applying for public health nursing positions, cater your resume and cover letter to highlight your education, experience, and skills. Emphasize your commitment to public health, any specialized training or certification, and your ability to work with diverse populations.
Step 6: Stay informed and continue learning
Public health is constantly evolving with new research, policies, and health threats. Staying informed on the most up-to-date research and evidence-based practices and guidelines is crucial. Consider the following:
- Reading public health journals and publications
- Attending conferences and workshops
- Participating in continuing education courses
- Joining professional organizations, such as the American Public Health Association (APHA) and the Association of Public Health Nurses (APHN)
Tips for success as a public health nurse
Develop strong communication skills. As a public health nurse, you'll need to educate individuals and communities, advocate for health policies, and work together with other healthcare professionals. Develop strong verbal and written communication skills and be comfortable presenting information to diverse audiences.
Cultivate cultural competence. Public health nurses work with diverse populations, each with unique cultural beliefs and practices. Cultivating cultural competence involves understanding and respecting cultural differences; tailoring health education and interventions to meet the needs of specific populations; and building trust and rapport with community members.
Focus on prevention and health promotion. A primary goal of public health nursing is to prevent illness and promote health. This involves conducting community assessments to identify health needs, developing and implementing health education programs, advocating for policies that improve community health, and partnering with community organizations to address social determinants of health.
Develop leadership and advocacy skills. Public health nurses often take on leadership roles, whether managing programs, leading community initiatives, or advocating for policy changes. Develop leadership skills by taking on leadership roles in your workplace or professional organizations; pursuing advanced education in public health or nursing leadership; and participating in mentorship programs.
Becoming a public health nurse shows a passion for nursing and a commitment to improving community health. By following these steps and focusing on continuous learning, you can make a significant impact in the field of public health nursing.
Public Health Nursing Jobs
Public health nursing involves promoting and protecting the health of communities through education, advocacy, and preventive care initiatives.