Planetary Health for Nurses:Climate Change Effects on Health

This course provides a comprehensive overview of planetary health, focusing on the intersection of climate change and human health from a nursing perspective. It begins with an introduction to the concept of planetary health and its relevance to nursing practice. The curriculum is structured around major climate-related health threats, including droughts, floods, extreme heat events, hurricanes, wildfires, and vector-borne diseases. For each topic, the course explores the link between climate change and the specific environmental challenge, its acute and chronic health impacts, and the implications for individuals, healthcare systems, and communities. The course emphasizes the role of nurses in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, covering topics such as emergency preparedness and health sector resilience. Throughout the course, students engage with case studies, expert interviews, and practical exercises to apply their learning to real-world scenarios. The final module focuses on actionable steps nurses can take to address climate-related health impacts in their practice settings.