The public health nurse is a distinct occupation: Contrasting skills, competencies, and job tasks between public health nurses and registered nurses

Abstract

Background: Public health nurses are a distinct occupation and specialty with a 140-year history, and are recognized as a core component of the public health workforce in local, state, tribal and territorial health departments. However, the US Department of Labor does not categorize them as a distinct occupation. Purpose: Our goal was to differentiate job duties, skills, or competencies between public health nurses and other registered nurses. Methods: We conducted a literature review, analyzed data from a large-scale data set of job postings for public health nurses and registered nurses, and conducted a statistical analysis of responses to the National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (NSSRN) and Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS). Discussion: PHNs have significantly different job tasks and skills/competency requirements compared to other registered nurses. With a clearer categorization of PHNs, we can improve the public health workforce and fill crucial workforce gaps. Conclusion: PHNs provide a distinctive and unique set of services to their communities, and they should be recognized as a specific occupation.