How Have Public Health Nursing Demographics, Educational and Career Pathways, and Job Activities Changed Over Time?
Description:
Research has demonstrated the value of public health nurses (PHNs) for community health, but recent data shows that the number of PHNs is decreasing faster than any other public health occupation. More information is needed about PHNs career pathways to grow and sustain this workforce. Using a recently developed algorithm to measure PHNs, we used National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (NSSRN) data from 2008-2022 to describe the PHN workforce and how this workforce has changed over time with respect to their demographics, educational preparation, and job characteristics.
Lead Researcher: Paula Kett, PhD, MPH, RN
Contact Information: pmk@uw.edu
Funder:
HRSA: HWRC Health Equity
Status:
Complete
Publications/Presentations
| Authors | Title | Type | Date | Documents/Media |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kett PM, Shahrir SF, Mohammed SA, Bekemeier B | The Career Pathways and Employment Experiences of Public Health Nurses Compared to Nurses Outside of Public Health, 2008 to 2022 | PUBLICATION | 07-27-2026 | Article |
| Kett PM, Shahrir SF, Mohammed SA, Bekemeier B | How Career Pathways and Employment Experiences of Public Health Nurses Compare to Nurses Outside of Public Health | PRESENTATION | 06-01-2026 |