Public Health Nursing Theory

The public health nursing theory is founded on the precepts of disease control, promotion of health, public intervention and educational awareness. Several different models of public health make up the reasoning behind the entire theory.

Neuman's System Model

• The model of Betty Neuman, developed at UCLA in the 1960s, takes a holistic approach to wellness, promoting balance between internal and external environments. In public health, it suggests imbalances between an individual and his physical, psychological and spiritual environment increase the risk of illness.

Nightingale's Environmental Theory

• In the theory of Florence Nightingale, a pioneer in nursing education, the physical environment plays a key role in the recovery process. For the recovery of patients, it emphasizes clean air and water, healthy food and overall cleanliness of environment.

Pender's Health Promotional Model

• The model of Nola J. Pender of the University of Michigan promotes healthy behaviors and encourages interpersonal guidance for the advancement of self-efficacy. One practicing concept of the model towards public health is the positive reinforcement of health-positive actions, which in turn lead to positive outcomes.

The Final Model

• The public health nursing theory emphasizes interpersonal reactions between nurses, community leaders and individuals to prevent disease. Combined from several models, it is based on the overall welfare of the community through the promotion of health positives.