The theoretical basis for nursing at the community level: a comparison of three models

Although literature on community health nursing identifies a nursing role at the community level, there is a lack of clarity about the elements and expected outcomes of this role. In this paper three models of community health practice are presented and discussed in terms of their effectiveness as a basis for nursing practice at the community level. These models are (1) the public health model, (2) community participation model, and (3) community change model. Factors that affect the effectiveness of nursing to work at the community level are also discussed and questions for reflection and debate raised.