Introduction to nursing care of populations within the community and public health systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding the epidemiological and biostatistical indicators of population health, methods of community health analysis, structure and function of federal, state and local health organizations, funding for community health. Discussion will incorporate health disparities, evidence-based intervention strategies, and the role of the nurse in population health.

Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to: 1. Discuss the sources and utilization of data from federal, state and local health agencies in assessing the needs of communities. 2. Evaluate epidemiologic information for relevance of needs assessments, identification of health risks across large population groups, and intervention strategies. 3. Analyze interactions among factors pertinent to population health, including health care systems and financing, environmental characteristics, sociopolitical cultural, and personal characteristics. 4. Design and evaluate evidence-based intervention strategies to address health promotion, disease prevention, and protection strategies across various populations. 5. Analyze the nursing role public health including legal and ethical issues.