This study resulted in individual and system change that may not have been possible without the use of PAR. The focus was engagement of participants and recognition of their lived experience, which facilitated PHNs' empowerment, leadership and consciousness-raising.

Purpose Documents articulating public health nurses' (PHNs') roles, including Canadian standards and competencies, depict a broad focus working at multiple levels to improve population outcomes through the promotion of health equity. Conversely, Canadian experts depict a looming crisis, based on the rising disconnect between daily activities and ideal practice. While perfectly positioned, PHNs' skills and abilities are under-utilized and largely invisible. The intention of this study was to develop a model to support the full scope of equity-focused PHN practice. Method A participatory action research approach was used. Qualitative data were gathered using semistructured interview guides during audio-recorded meetings. The data were coded into central themes using content analysis and constant comparison. A researcher reflexive journal and field notes were kept. A significant feature was full participant involvement. Results The outcome was a professional practice model to reframe the PHN role to focus on population health and equity. The model was imperative in promoting full scope of practice, dealing with workload pressures, and describing PHNs' value within the organization and broader health system. Conclusion Professional practice models hold promise as frameworks to depict autonomous practice activities, situated within organizations and healthcare systems, and underpinned by nursing knowledge.

The purpose of this initiative was to define the development, verification, and evolution of the conceptual model for Professional Identity in Nursing. This action research design occurred over two phases, utilizing observations, a modified Norris process for model development, and focus groups. Analysis consisted of conventional content analysis and the Fawcett method for conceptual model analysis and evaluation. The model was modified, and results are presented based on the model’s philosophical underpinnings, content, socialness, and evolution. The model resonates with nurses both in the United States and internationally. The interdependency shown in the model encourages collaboration, accountability, and sustainability within the profession and society.

Objectives: Following the introduction of hospital early postpartum discharge (EPD), public health nurses (PHNs) have provided large-scale in-home follow-up to promote the safety and well-being of mothers and babies. Given high numbers of births per year, this program has affected PHNs' practice. This descriptive qualitative study aimed to explore PHNs' perceptions of EPD and its effects on their practice. Methods: Data were collected in focus groups (n=24) consisting of PHNs in four community health areas (CHAs) in the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA). Audiotaped data were transcribed, entered into Microsoft Word XP, and analyzed using constant comparison. Results: The female participants had a mean of 10 years of PHN experience. Three main themes and 10 subthemes were identified. The main themes were: passion for the PHN role, influence of EPD on practice, and building a PHN future. The subthemes included: valuing public health nursing, building capacity and developing relationships, changes in practice, erosion of health promotion, a new role, proper tools, continuity of care, relationships with community partners, and resources to support public health programs. Conclusion: The PHNs indicated the introduction of EPD altered their practice by reducing their role in community-level intervention and health promotion activities. Although they identified benefits from undertaking EPD activities, they wanted resources and funding shifted into the public health system to better support PHNs' increase in scope of practice and historical roles in promoting the health of individuals, families and communities.

To honor the legacy of Dr. Benita Cohen, this special volume of Witness: The Canadian Journal of Critical Nursing Discourses is dedicated in remembrance of her. This Invited Commentary reflects on Benita’s career, passions, personality and key contributions to public health and  nursing. Dr. Cohen was an exceptional nurse, researcher, educator, mentor, and health policy consultant. Her vision has shaped the fields of public health and community health nursing, and her impact will be felt for many generations to come.