The definition of health has changed over time. In the early 19th century, infectious diseases were widespread and difficult to contain largely because of the lack of proper sanitation methods, including insufficient disinfection of drinking water and improper removal of human waste. During this time, health was viewed in basic terms as being free of disease (CCC, 2018). Then, In 1984, WHO brought in a new conception of health, not as a state, but in dynamic terms of resiliency, in other words, as “a resource for living”. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity (WHO, 2020). As the definition of health evolved, Health promotion and the prevention of disease have taken precedence in the United States in an effort to decrease chronic health conditions and promote healthy living. The goal is to create a culture of health in which health promotion and disease prevention is the focus rather than seeking treatment after disease has set in (CCC, 2018) Health promotion is the process of enabling people to increase control over, and to improve, their health. To reach a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, an individual or group must be able to identify and to realize aspirations, to satisfy needs, and to change or cope with the environment. Health is, therefore, seen as a resource for everyday life, not the objective of living. Health is a positive concept emphasizing social and personal resources, as well as physical capacities. Therefore, health promotion is not just the responsibility of the health sector, but goes beyond healthy life-styles to well-being (FICHP, 1986). The nurse is key in the provision of health promotion strategies in all care settings. As the focus is shifted to prevention measures, the role of the nurse in health promotion education is expanding rapidly. The nurse assesses the patient and implements evidence-based practice (EBP) while assuming each role and providing health promotion measures to patients and the community (CCC, 2018) This is important because new evidence presents itself on a constant basis. Nuress should be on constant lookout for evidence-based treatments that may become outdated when new evidence comes to light. CCC web books by AWS & CDD. (n.d.). (2018) Retrieved from https://lc.gcumedia.com/nrs429vn/health-promotion-health-and-wellness-across-the-continuum/v1.1/#/chapter/ Respond to the above student’s post using 200-300 word with references in supporting discussion

The student’s post provides an overview of how the definition of health has evolved over time, from a focus on the absence of disease to a broader understanding that includes physical, mental, and social well-being. The post also emphasizes the importance of health promotion and disease prevention in creating a culture of health.

I agree with the student’s statement that health promotion is not solely the responsibility of the health sector. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to health promotion that involves not only individuals, but also communities, organizations, and governments (WHO, 2020). This approach recognizes that health is influenced by a range of factors, including social, economic, and environmental determinants.

The role of nurses in health promotion is indeed crucial. Nurses are often at the forefront of patient care and have frequent interactions with individuals and communities. They have the opportunity to assess patients’ health needs, provide education about health promotion strategies, and facilitate behavior change. Furthermore, nurses can play a key role in advocating for health policies and practices that support disease prevention and well-being.

In order to effectively engage in health promotion, nurses must stay up to date with the latest evidence-based practices. The student mentions the importance of nurses implementing evidence-based practice (EBP) to ensure the provision of high-quality care. EBP involves integrating the best available research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences in decision-making (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2018). By staying informed about current research and continuously updating their knowledge and skills, nurses are better equipped to deliver effective health promotion interventions.

In conclusion, the evolving definition of health encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being, and health promotion and disease prevention play a crucial role in achieving this state of well-being. Nurses have a significant responsibility in promoting health and providing education to individuals and communities. By staying current with evidence-based practices, nurses can ensure the delivery of high-quality care that aligns with the evolving understanding of health and wellness.

References:
Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2018). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice (4th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
World Health Organization. (2020). Health promotion. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/healthpromotion/conferences/9gchp/health-promotion-definition/en/