Core Functions of a Public Health Nurse: Assessment, Policy Development, and Assurance

The three core functions of public health nursing, aligned with the Institute of Medicine's public health framework, are:

1. Assessment: Systematically collect and analyze data on population health status, risk factors (poverty, access barriers, behavioral risks), and community assets/resources. Includes community health needs assessments, surveillance, and epidemiologic investigation.
2. Policy Development: Translate assessment findings into policies and plans that promote health equity. Advocate for legislation, funding, regulations, and programs that address identified needs (e.g., immunization access, environmental protections, healthy housing).
3. Assurance: Ensure that essential public health services are available and accessible to all, regardless of ability to pay. This includes direct service delivery (immunizations, screenings, health education), workforce development, quality improvement, and partnership with other agencies to fill gaps.

These functions are cyclical and interdependent, guiding the public health nurse's role in population health improvement.