Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which of the following historical titles was used for community-oriented nurses?

1. Private nurses

2. District nurses

3. Home assistants

4. Field nurses

The correct answer is: District nurses

The title "district nurses" holds significance in the context of community-oriented nursing. Historically, district nurses were specifically trained to provide care in the community, often serving in rural or underserved areas. Their role encompassed not only individual patient care but also broader public health responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of health promotion, disease prevention, and community wellness. This approach allowed them to address both immediate health needs and the social determinants of health within various populations. In contrast, the other titles mentioned do not encapsulate the community-oriented aspect of nursing to the same extent. For instance, private nurses typically provided care in a one-on-one setting primarily within the homes of individuals, lacking the broader community focus that district nurses had. Home assistants often refer to non-professional support roles that help with daily living activities, rather than skilled nursing care. Field nurses may focus on specific health outreach programs or mobile healthcare, yet this term does not historically encompass the comprehensive community involvement that district nursing represents. Thus, "district nurses" is the title that best reflects the essence of community-oriented nursing practice.