What is one of the primary functions of a population health nurse?

One of the primary functions of a population health nurse is to support clients in managing their own health conditions. This role focuses on empowering individuals and communities to take charge of their health through education, resources, and support systems. Population health nurses work to identify health needs within communities, promote health literacy, and encourage preventive health measures, ensuring that individuals have the tools and knowledge necessary to manage chronic illnesses or prevent future health issues.

In contrast, administering medications, conducting laboratory tests, and providing emergency care during disasters, while essential aspects of nursing practice, fall more distinctly under the responsibilities of specific nursing roles or clinical settings. Population health nurses typically take a holistic approach that emphasizes community engagement and prevention rather than immediate clinical intervention. Thus, supporting clients in managing their own health aligns closely with the population health framework, which seeks to enhance health outcomes by focusing on the collective health of communities.