What is one of the primary roles of a nurse during a health screening?

One of the primary roles of a nurse during a health screening is to educate patients about their health risks and prevention strategies. This involves assessing each patient’s unique health history, lifestyle factors, and potential risk factors for various diseases. By providing clear and relevant information, nurses empower patients to make informed decisions about their health, including changes to diet, exercise, and preventive measures such as vaccinations and screenings. Education is vital because it not only helps in identifying current health issues but also plays a crucial part in prevention, enabling patients to proactively manage their health.

While performing surgeries, prescribing medications, or conducting laboratory tests are important components of healthcare, they fall outside the primary scope of practice for nurses during health screenings. Nurses play a pivotal role in patient education, ensuring that individuals understand their health situations and the importance of regular health check-ups and preventive care. This educational aspect is essential in fostering long-term health awareness and encouraging patients to take an active role in their health management.