Nurses

“Nursing encompasses autonomous and collaborative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or well and in all settings. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled and dying people. Advocacy, promotion of a safe environment, research, participation in shaping health policy and in patient and health systems management, and education are also key nursing roles.” (International Council of Nurses).

Nursing within a primary healthcare team is both an art and a science focusing on providing quality care within a primary health care setting. Roles and responsibilities of the nurse vary according to the patient needs identified within the practice.
Currently, nurses working in primary healthcare teams are:

• Developing, implementing and evaluating programs focusing on prevention and promotion i.e. smoking cessation, colorectal screening, nurse led cervical screening programs, osteopenia programs, immunization programs, healthy living, work place wellness, INR and sexual health programs

• Developing, implementing and evaluating programs focusing on chronic disease and self management programs i.e. heart health, COPD, diabetes, arthritis

• Palliative care, mental health, foot care, wound care, 18 month old screening, memory screening

• Actively involved in building capacity within their community by sitting on various committees i.e. LHIN, Health for Life

• Networking and linking with community partners to deliver a collaborative health care approach i.e. Health Units, Osteoporosis Society, Alzheimer’s Society, CCAC

• Instrumental in initiating support groups i.e. Stroke, Parkinson’s
• Partnering with other community agencies/organizations to deliver health care programs that meets the needs of patients

Nurses

Links/Resources