Public health nurses are a crucial part of health care. As we embark upon National Nurses Week (May 6-12), we salute our outstanding Fairfax County Health Department team of public health nurses who serve our community every day. 

“Nursing and public health in particular...it’s a calling. To serve the population, the community at large, who are vulnerable especially. I can be their voice, I can advocate for them, for their health, and I’m dedicated to closing the health equity gap.” Natalia Giscombe Simons, Assistant Director of Health Services and Public Health Nurse, Fairfax County Health Department.

Public health nurses work within the community to improve health outcomes, educate, and provide care for community members. They serve in a wide variety of sites, including schools, health clinics, adult care centers, and more. They provide a wide range of services, including pregnancy testing and counseling, maternity services, tuberculosis screening and treatment, immunizations, and public health assessments. No two days are ever the same.

“I am a person who likes to take care of others. And that can occur in different ways, not just the medical, but also the social emotional sides of a person. And so, when I think about my work in the field of nursing, I want to make sure that families have access to health care. That also means helping them to be an advocate for themselves, not just moms and babies but also the family as a whole” Alysia G. Parker-Stephens, RN, MS, Maternal Child Health Field Team, Fairfax County Health Department.

 

Fairfax County Health Department nurses ensure that their patients receive the best care possible, aiding wherever there is need, and doing so in a kind, compassionate way. They build relationships with their patients and become a trusted source for help. Public health nurses dedicate time to patients and work not only to address the acute problem, but to also encourage healthy behaviors and increase health and wellness in individuals and families.

“Nursing, it can’t be a job. It’s something that drives you to help the community,” Natalia said.

View the Health Department’s “Celebrating Public Health Nurses” YouTube playlist to hear more from some of Fairfax County’s public health nurses.