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How can the core function of assessment be applied to public health nursing in a local health department using immunization as an example?

In a local health department, PHNs apply the assessment core function by gathering epidemiological data to determine the rate of children fully immunized against specific communicable diseases, such as measles and H1N1 influenza, with a high immunization rate as an indicator.

Using immunization as an example, assessment is illustrated when public health nurses working in local health departments collect epidemiological data to measure how many children are fully immunized against specific communicable diseases. The evidence cites measles and H1N1 influenza as examples and notes that a high immunization rate, such as greater than 70 percent, is a relevant benchmark for promoting population health.

Key points

  • Assessment involves gathering epidemiological data in the local health department setting.
  • The example used is determining the rate of children fully immunized against communicable diseases.
  • Specific diseases mentioned include measles and H1N1 influenza.
  • A high immunization rate above 70 percent is the referenced threshold.
  • This data collection supports the core public health function of assessment.
Source:Publiccommunity Health and Nursing Practice Caring for Populations by Christine L. Savage· Health Planning for Primary Care Settings· p. 330
Cover of Publiccommunity Health and Nursing Practice Caring for Populations by Christine L. Savage

Publiccommunity Health and Nursing Practice Caring for Populations by Christine L. Savage

Savage, Christine;

SECOND EDITION · F. A. Davis Company

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