Ethics and Core Functions of Nursing in Community Health, Essay Example

Introduction

Nursing in the community is a critical factor in advancing the health and wellbeing of individuals and families. It is important for nurses to actively contribute to patient care and to address public health concerns in the community on a regular basis. This includes the adoption of knowledge and frameworks that are common throughout nursing practice in order to achieve these objectives in a concise manner (Stanhope and Lancaster, 2013). Similarly, community members must work collaboratively with nurses to ensure that common health concerns are addressed and supported through different initiatives to support healthcare needs (Anderson and McFarlane, 2010). Health promotion is another critical factor in the development of new perspectives regarding successful outcomes for community members; therefore, nurses in the community play a role in supporting these needs and in demonstrating ethical behaviors on a continuous basis (Terpstra et.al, 2011).

Analysis

In working with an older Hispanic/Latino client, there was a strong focus on her cultural beliefs, which resonated throughout the intake process. I knew that many people from this culture held strongly rooted beliefs customs and practices used to preserve health without medical intervention. In a sense, I could tell that the client was apprehensive regarding the visit and the need for outside intervention. With this tone, I assumed that the client would be apprehensive throughout the process; however, I attempted to overcome these concerns by demonstrating compassion for her needs. This was a positive force in our brief encounter because it supported a viable treatment plan.

Conclusion

Working with clients in the community requires an important understanding of the beliefs and customs of these clients so that progress is made as they move through the healthcare system. These concerns must resonate with healthcare workers in the community as a means of achieving greater progress and understanding of different cultures and how they impact practice settings.

References

Anderson, E. T., & McFarlane, J. M. (2010). Community as partner: Theory and practice in nursing. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Stanhope, M., and Lancaster, J. (2013). Foundations of nursing in the community: community-oriented practice, 4^th edition. Mosby.

Terpstra, J., Coleman, K. J., Simon, G., & Nebeker, C. (2011). The role of community health workers (CHWs) in health promotion research: Ethical challenges and practical solutions. Health promotion practice, 12(1), 86-93.