Public health nurses improve access to health care by working within community programs to provide education and health tools to people within an area. The Association of Public Health Nurses (APHN) defines public health nursing as promoting and protecting public health. Through targeted services and programs, nurses care for people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. In a public health nurse career, your responsibilities include assessing patients, recommending treatment plans, and administering treatment. Duties also span electronic record-keeping, documenting consent, and maintaining accurate patient histories.