Public Health Nurse

About the role

The Public Health Nurse provides skilled nursing care and preventive health services to individuals, families, and children in community settings. Reporting to the Director of Nursing Services – Public Health, the role involves assessing health needs, developing care plans, implementing interventions, and evaluating outcomes while collaborating with the New York State Department of Health and local agencies.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver skilled nursing care and prescribed treatments in homes and clinics, and demonstrate care techniques to patients and families.
• Conduct preventive health clinics and seminars on topics such as breast health, diabetes, and lead poisoning.
• Facilitate continuity of care by referring patients to appropriate community resources.
• Coordinate public‑health programs, act as liaison with NYSDOH, manage vaccine inventory, and communicate with medical offices.
• Counsel individuals and families to recognize and resolve physical, emotional, and environmental health problems.
• Provide nursing services in school‑based clinics and consultations.
• Teach classes, address groups, and participate in community health planning.
• Assist in health‑related surveys and research studies.
• Compile and analyze records, reports, and statistical data for program evaluation and planning.
• Set up and dismantle health clinics, including supplies and equipment.
• Make home visits to deliver nursing services to individuals, families, and children.
• Participate in emergency and disaster preparedness planning and training.
• Maintain accurate records and required reports.

Required profile

• Thorough knowledge of modern public health nursing practices and clinical procedures.
• Familiarity with medical and nursing terminology, epidemiology, and the epidemiological approach to health.
• Understanding of community service agency structures and operations.
• Ability to plan, coordinate, and evaluate nursing care for individuals, families, and groups.
• Capability to supervise and guide health‑care personnel assigned to support care delivery.
• Basic computer proficiency for record‑keeping and reporting.

Required skills

• Basic computer skills
• Clinical nursing procedures