Public health nursing has a long and rich history in the United States, dating back to the late 19th century. The roots of public health nursing can be traced back to the work of Lillian Wald, who founded the Henry Street Settlement in New York City in 1893. Wald and her colleagues provided nursing care to the poor and immigrant populations of the city, focusing on preventive measures and health education.
In 1912, the first official public health nursing program was established in New York City, with the goal of improving the health of the city's residents through home visits, health education, and community outreach. This program served as a model for other cities and states to follow, and by the early 20th century, public health nursing had become an integral part of the healthcare system in the United States.
During the early 20th century, public health nursing played a crucial role in addressing major public health challenges such as infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and sanitation. Public health nurses were instrumental in implementing vaccination programs, conducting health screenings, and providing education on hygiene and nutrition.
In the mid-20th century, the focus of public health nursing shifted towards chronic disease prevention and health promotion. Public health nurses began to work more closely with communities to address social determinants of health such as poverty, housing, and access to healthcare.
Today, public health nursing continues to play a vital role in promoting and protecting the health of populations in the United States. Public health nurses work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, community health centers, schools, and non-profit organizations, to address a wide range of public health issues such as obesity, substance abuse, mental health, and environmental health.
Overall, the historical background of public health nursing at the national level in the United States reflects a commitment to improving the health and well-being of all individuals and communities through preventive measures, health education, and community-based interventions.