Nurses represent one of the most important pillars of the healthcare sector, yet their contribution often goes unnoticed. The authors of a new scientific article published in the journal CABI One Health highlight the role of nurses in the global “One Health” approach, which recognizes the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health and implies collaborative work across various sectors for their protection.
The Existing Role of Nurses in the “One Health” Model
According to the paper, nurses are already implementing the core principles of this approach in their practical work—ranging from clinical care and infection prevention to public health and emergency response. However, these directions of nursing practice are not officially considered part of the One Health model.
“This circumstance limits their participation in governance, education, and strategic decision-making processes,” notes the lead author of the paper, Professor Paulo Ferrinho.
The Role of Nurses in Epidemic Preparedness and Response
Nurses play a crucial role in preparedness, disease detection, and response processes for epidemics or pandemics within the framework of One Health. Their activities include disease surveillance, case recording, and management. Furthermore, in the fight against epidemics, they themselves face risks of infection and life-threatening dangers.
A clear example of this is the Ebola epidemic that spread across West Africa in 2014–2016, during which more than 28,600 people were infected and 11,325 died. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, by March 2015, 815 confirmed and probable cases of Ebola were recorded among medical staff in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. Of those whose outcome was known, two-thirds died.
According to the authors’ assessment, the professional knowledge, experience, and skills demonstrated by nurses during deadly outbreaks once again emphasize that they must be integrated into preparedness, surveillance, and response systems before the next pandemic begins.
Historical Roots
Considering the connection between the environment and health has a long history in nursing practice, tracing its origins back to the work of Florence Nightingale. During the Crimean War, amid recurrent cholera outbreaks, Nightingale paid great attention to hospital sanitation and hygiene alongside patient treatment.
“Nightingale understood that nursing is not just about caring for an individual patient, but encompasses health protection through attention to sanitation, living conditions, and the environment. She foresaw the systemic perspective that serves as the foundation of ‘One Health’ today,” states Ferrinho.
Recommendations and Future Outlook
The authors emphasize that the principles of One Health must also become part of nursing education. Curricula should cover essential topics such as zoonotic infections, climate change-related health risks, and antimicrobial resistance.
Moreover, strengthening the role of nurses should not mean placing additional responsibilities on an already overworked staff. This process must be accompanied by appropriate authority, proper remuneration, workplace resources, and real participation in decision-making processes.
Ignoring the potential and role of nurses leaves global healthcare systems less prepared for future epidemics and other crises. That is why their full integration into the “One Health” model alongside specialists in medicine, veterinary care, ecology, and public health is essential.
