Nurse B - Public Health Nurse

The Public Health Nurse directly delivers public health nursing service to individuals, families and communities in an assigned geographic area within the Saskatchewan Health Authority (formerly RQHR).  The Public Health Nurse carries out public health nursing activities under the supervision of the Public Health Nursing Supervisor.  This employee works relatively independently and is expected to make primary decisions based on sound assessments according to accepted policies and procedures of the nursing program and the Saskatchewan Health Authority and SRNA Standards of practices.  This employee will facilitate in identifying needs of individuals, families, groups or communities and will assist in the development of programs/services, carry out immunization, assess client needs, make home visits, counsel and provide health promotion services.  This employee liaises with, and refers to, other health personnel and agencies, as well as works closely with community groups.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

 

Understands levels of prevention and how these are used in promotion, prevention and protection of health. Demonstrates knowledge of multiple health promotion strategies including building health public policy; creating supportive environments, strengthening community action, developing personal skills; and reorienting health services. Uses knowledge of determinants of health in interactions with clients at all levels. Applies understanding of child development. Demonstrates knowledge and/or ability in the areas of community development, community assessment, education resource development and media communication and social marketing. Demonstrates application of the nursing process in dealing with individuals, groups, communities or organizations. Makes independent nursing judgements based on evidence-based practice and Public Health principles. Uses critical analysis, reflective practice, assessment and utilizes evidence-based practice. Analyzes health issues in context of the political and social climate along with individual/community readiness. Collaborates with the client at all levels (individual, group and community) to assist clients in taking responsibility for their own health. Demonstrates skills in negotiation and conflict resolution, group education, facilitation, individual counseling and advocacy. Ability to be self-directed and exercise independent decision-making in a community-based environment. Ability to work collaboratively with team members and the community at large. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, adapting to clients needs or professional interactions. Willingness to adhere to established Public Health Services policies and procedures. High level of accuracy is required in all aspects of assigned responsibility such as health assessment, nursing diagnosis and treatment, immunization, and handling specialized equipment. Demonstrates flexibility by adjusting workload to accommodate client needs in a manner that ensures positive customer relations. Ability to demonstrate appropriate level of professional conduct and judgement.