[ANSWERED 2023] Post an explanation of at least two opportunities that currently exist for RNs and APRNs to actively participate in policy review

Post an explanation of at least two opportunities that currently exist for RNs and APRNs to actively participate in policy review

Some nurses may be hesitant to get involved with policy evaluation. The preference may be to focus on the care and well-being of their patients; some nurses may feel ill-equipped to enter the realm of policy and political activities. However, as you have examined previously, who better to advocate for patients and effective programs and polices than nurses? Already patient advocates in interactions with doctors and leadership, why not with government and regulatory agencies?

In this Discussion, you will reflect on the role of professional nurses in policy evaluation.

To Prepare:

• In the Module 4 Discussion, you considered how professional nurses can become involved in policy-making.
• Review the Resources and reflect on the role of professional nurses in policy evaluation.

By Day 3 of Week 9

Post an explanation of at least two opportunities that currently exist for RNs and APRNs to actively participate in policy review. Explain some of the challenges that these opportunities may present and describe how you might overcome these challenges. Finally, recommend two strategies you might make to better advocate for or communicate the existence of these opportunities. Be specific and provide examples.

Resources

Milstead, J. A., & Short, N. M. (2019). Health policy and politics: A nurse’s guide (6th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Chapter 7, “Health Policy and Social Program Evaluation” (pp. 116–124 only)

Glasgow, R. E., Lichtenstein, E., & Marcus, A. C. (2003). Why don’t we see more translation of health promotion research to practice? Rethinking the efficacy-to-effectiveness transition. American Journal of Public Health, 93(8), 1261–1267.
Note: You will access this article from the Walden Library databases.

Shiramizu, B., Shambaugh, V., Petrovich, H., Seto, T. B., Ho, T., Mokuau, N., & Hedges, J. R. (2016). Leading by success: Impact of a clinical and translational research infrastructure program to address health inequities. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 4(5), 983–991. doi:10.1007/s40615-016-0302-4

Williams, J. K., & Anderson, C. M. (2018). Omics research ethics considerations. Nursing Outlook, 66(4), 386–393. doi:10.1016/j.outlook.2018.05.003
Note: You will access this article from the Walden Library databases.

Expert Answer and Explanation

The fact that nurses are part of the rapidly developing health systems means that they need to take part in the formulation of health policies as well as implementing them. Their influence has a direct effect on patient safety and quality of care (Williams & Anderson, 2018). A strategic solving of the problems that influence these policies can also help in smooth implementation.

Opportunities That Currently Exist For RNs and APRNs to Actively Participate In Policy Review

One of the active opportunities for the nurses is in nursing education. RNs and APRNs need to acquire various policy-making skills that would help them in addressing the professional challenges they may have to face in the policy making process. Also, the fact that nurses are always present in almost all healthcare settings presents an opportunity for them to give a significant input to policy decisions (Glasgow et al., 2003). Lastly, nurses, more than any other healthcare personnel, have a great influence in resource allocation as well as support delivery, hence their unique role in policy formulation.

Challenges That These Opportunities May Present

Some of the challenges include the fact that people in the healthcare industry have an old view of nurses, where they perceive them as only influencers of patient care and that they are not open to other roles. Health managers and health authorities also perceive nurses to be in the sixth grade (which is the last) in comparison to other health professionals (Glasgow et al., 2003). Hence, the idea of policy influence is new among individuals.

Overcoming These Challenges

The first step in overcoming this challenges is training healthcare professionals on the importance of nursing management. They should also be made to understand that nurses are in more direct contact with patients more than any other stakeholder in health, and hence there input in health policy formulation is crucial.

Strategies to Better Advocate For the Existence of These Opportunities

The education system of nurses should create more emphasis on policy development and implementation (Shiramizu et al., 2017). Also, directly educating other healthcare givers on the various roles of the individuals in nursing could help position nurses well in policy review and implementation.

References

Glasgow, R. E., Lichtenstein, E., & Marcus, A. C. (2003). Why don’t we see more translation of health promotion research to practice? Rethinking the efficacy-to-effectiveness transition. American journal of public health, 93(8), 1261-1267.

Shiramizu, B., Shambaugh, V., Petrovich, H., Seto, T. B., Ho, T., Mokuau, N., & Hedges, J. R. (2017). Leading by success: Impact of a clinical and translational research infrastructure program to address health inequities. Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities, 4(5), 983-991.

Williams, J. K., & Anderson, C. M. (2018). Omics research ethics considerations. Nursing outlook, 66(4), 386-393.

Alternative Expert Answer

Two Opportunities that Currently Exist

Registered Nurses (RNs) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) play critical roles in helping advance nursing objectives. Certain key opportunities are available to nurses working in the roles of the RNs and APRNs. Advocacy is an example of the opportunity that is available to the nursing professionals based on these APRN and RN roles. A nurse can take advantage of this opportunity by advocating for improved work conditions. Still, a nursing working in either of the two roles has an opportunity of becoming a leader of a medical facility (Joseph & Huber, 2015). As a leader, the nurse can make decisions including making policies to improve an organizational process.

Challenges which the Opportunities would present

While nurses can benefit by taking advantage of these opportunities, each opportunity presents challenges. For example, it can be difficult for the nurse to perform their advocacy role if they lack the support of the colleagues, and the organization they work for. This lack of support may derail the attainment of the aims which the advocacy seeks to realize (Nsiah, Siakwa, & Ninnoni, 2019). The challenge linked to the leadership opportunity is race-based discrimination.

Strategies for Communicating the Existence of the Opportunities

Certain strategies can help communicate the existence of the opportunities. Relying on the platforms such as seminars and nurse meetings, a nurse trying to realize advocacy objective would communicate why a certain change is necessary in health care. Another strategy involves the use of the nursing journals to sensitize nurses about the existence of these opportunities (Nsiah, Siakwa, & Ninnoni, 2019).

Ways of Overcoming the Challenges

It is possible to manage issues with advocacy and leadership opportunities. Involving nurses to participate in advocacy activities can be important in helping gain their support. It is important to train employees on the values of respect and cultural competency so that they can accept others to anyone to lead them irrespective of the individual’s racial background (Davoodvand, Abbaszadeh, & Ahmadi, 2016).

References

Davoodvand, S., Abbaszadeh, A., & Ahmadi, F. (2016). Patient Advocacy from the Clinical Nurses’ Viewpoint: A Qualitative Study. Journal of Medical Ethics And History Of Medicine, 9, 5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4958925/.

Joseph, M. L., & Huber, D. L. (2015). Clinical leadership development and education for nurses: prospects and opportunities. Journal of healthcare leadership, 7, 55–64. Doi: https://doi.org/10.2147/JHL.S68071.

Nsiah, C., Siakwa, M., & Ninnoni, J. (2019). Barriers to Practicing Patient Advocacy In Healthcare Setting. Nursing Open, 7(2), 650–659.Doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.436.

Nsiah, C., Siakwa, M., & Ninnoni, J. (2019). Registered Nurses’ description of patient advocacy in the clinical setting. Nursing open, 6(3), 1124–1132. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.307.

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FAQs

Opportunities for RNs and APRNs to Actively Participate in Policy Making

As healthcare professionals, Registered Nurses (RNs) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) play a crucial role in providing care and advocating for patients. However, they can also have a significant impact on healthcare policy by engaging in the policymaking process. This article will explore the various opportunities available for RNs and APRNs to actively participate in policy making.

Introduction

• Explanation of what policy making is and why it’s important for RNs and APRNs to be involved

Understanding the Policy Making Process

• Overview of the policy making process at the federal, state, and local levels
• Explanation of the different stages in the process and the opportunities available for RNs and APRNs to get involved

Opportunities for RNs and APRNs to Participate in Policy Making

• Joining professional organizations and advocacy groups
• Serving on advisory committees and task forces
• Contacting elected officials and participating in lobbying efforts
• Running for elected office or supporting healthcare-friendly candidates
• Participating in grassroots advocacy efforts and community organizing

Examples of RN and APRN Involvement in Policy Making

• Overview of specific policies that have been impacted by RN and APRN involvement
• Case studies of RN and APRN-led initiatives and advocacy efforts

Benefits of RN and APRN Involvement in Policy Making

• Improved patient outcomes and access to care
• Increased professional autonomy and recognition
• Enhanced job satisfaction and fulfillment
• Improved healthcare systems and policies

Challenges to RN and APRN Involvement in Policy Making

• Limited time and resources
• Lack of awareness or understanding of the policymaking process
• Resistance or opposition from other stakeholders
• Personal biases or political affiliations

Conclusion

• Recap of the various opportunities and benefits of RN and APRN involvement in policy making
• Call to action for RNs and APRNs to take an active role in shaping healthcare policy

FAQs

1. What is the role of RNs and APRNs in policy making?
2. How can RNs and APRNs get involved in policy making?
3. What are some examples of policies that have been impacted by RN and APRN involvement?
4. What are the benefits of RN and APRN involvement in policy making?
5. What are some of the challenges to RN and APRN involvement in policy making?

1. What is the role of RNs and APRNs in policy making?

As healthcare professionals, RNs and APRNs have a unique perspective on the healthcare system and the needs of patients. By actively participating in the policymaking process, they can provide valuable insights and advocate for policies that improve patient outcomes and access to care.

2. How can RNs and APRNs get involved in policy making?

RNs and APRNs can get involved in policy making by joining professional organizations and advocacy groups, serving on advisory committees and task forces, contacting elected officials and participating in lobbying efforts, running for elected office or supporting healthcare-friendly candidates, and participating in grassroots advocacy efforts and community organizing.

3. What are some examples of policies that have been impacted by RN and APRN involvement?

Examples of policies that have been impacted by RN and APRN involvement include the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid expansion, and the Nurse Licensure Compact. RN and APRN-led initiatives have also led to increased funding for nursing education and research, as well as improved workplace safety regulations.

4. What are the benefits of RN and APRN involvement in policy making?

The benefits of RN and APRN involvement in policy making include improved patient outcomes and access to care, increased professional autonomy and recognition, enhanced job satisfaction and fulfillment, and improved healthcare systems and policies.

What are the Reasons Many Nurses Do Not Actively Engage in Lobbying Efforts?

Nurses play an essential role in the healthcare industry, providing care and support to patients in various settings. However, nursing goes beyond bedside care, and nurses have an opportunity to influence healthcare policies that affect their profession and patients’ lives. Lobbying is one of the ways that nurses can participate in the policymaking process. Unfortunately, many nurses do not actively engage in lobbying efforts, which affects their profession’s ability to influence healthcare policies. This article explores the reasons why many nurses do not engage in lobbying efforts and the impact of their inaction.

Understanding Lobbying

Before delving into the reasons why nurses do not engage in lobbying, it is essential to understand what lobbying is. Lobbying refers to the process of advocating for or against a particular policy, legislation, or regulation to influence policymakers’ decisions. Nurses can engage in lobbying efforts at different levels of government, from local to federal.

Reasons Why Many Nurses Do Not Actively Engage in Lobbying Efforts

Lack of Awareness and Understanding

One of the reasons why many nurses do not engage in lobbying efforts is a lack of awareness and understanding of the policymaking process. Nurses may not be aware of the policies that affect their profession, and they may not know how to participate in the policymaking process. Moreover, nurses may not understand the importance of lobbying and how it affects their practice.

Lack of Time

Nurses work in a demanding and fast-paced environment, and many nurses may feel that they do not have the time to participate in lobbying efforts. Nurses may work long hours, have family responsibilities, and may not have the flexibility to attend lobbying events or meetings.

Fear of Retaliation

Some nurses may fear retaliation from their employers or colleagues for engaging in lobbying efforts. Nurses may fear that their participation in lobbying efforts may lead to disciplinary action, loss of employment, or damaged relationships with their colleagues.

Lack of Resources

Nurses may lack the necessary resources to engage in lobbying efforts effectively. For instance, nurses may not have access to policymakers or may lack the financial resources to attend lobbying events or hire a lobbyist to represent them.

Perceived Ineffectiveness

Some nurses may not engage in lobbying efforts because they believe that their efforts will not make a significant impact. Nurses may feel that policymakers may not listen to their concerns or that their lobbying efforts may not result in any tangible changes.

The Impact of Nurses’ Inaction

The lack of nurses’ engagement in lobbying efforts has significant consequences for the nursing profession and patient care. By not participating in lobbying efforts, nurses miss an opportunity to influence healthcare policies that affect their profession and patient care. The lack of nurses’ engagement in lobbying efforts also means that policymakers may not have a complete understanding of the issues that affect nurses and their patients, which may result in policies that do not reflect the needs of the nursing profession.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nurses have a critical role to play in the policymaking process, and lobbying is one of the ways that nurses can actively participate in policy making. However, many nurses do not engage in lobbying efforts due to a lack of awareness and understanding, lack of time, fear of retaliation, lack of resources, and perceived ineffectiveness. The inaction of nurses has a significant impact on the nursing profession and patient care. It is essential for nurses to be aware of the importance of lobbying and the impact it has on their profession and patients.

FAQs

1. What is lobbying?
2. Can nurses engage in lobbying efforts at different levels of government?
3. Why do some nurses fear retaliation for engaging in lobbying efforts?
4. What are the consequences of nurses’ inaction on lobbying efforts?

1. How can nurses become more involved

Why It Is Important for Registered Nurses to Influence the Regulatory Process?

As healthcare professionals on the frontlines, registered nurses (RNs) play a critical role in providing quality patient care. However, their impact goes beyond bedside care, as they also have the potential to shape healthcare policy and regulation. In this article, we will explore why it is important for registered nurses to influence the regulatory process.

Introduction

Healthcare is a complex system that involves multiple stakeholders, from patients and healthcare providers to government regulators and policymakers. The regulatory process, which includes the development, implementation, and enforcement of laws and regulations, has a significant impact on the delivery of healthcare services.

Registered nurses, as key players in the healthcare system, have the potential to influence the regulatory process and shape healthcare policy. However, many RNs may not be aware of the importance of their role in this process or may face barriers in participating effectively.

The Role of Registered Nurses in Healthcare

Registered nurses play a critical role in providing quality patient care. They are responsible for a wide range of duties, including assessing patient needs, administering medications, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals.

In addition to their clinical responsibilities, RNs also serve as advocates for their patients. They work to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and are treated with dignity and respect.

The Regulatory Process and its Impact on Healthcare

The regulatory process is a complex system that involves the development, implementation, and enforcement of laws and regulations. In healthcare, these regulations govern everything from the qualifications and training of healthcare professionals to the safety and efficacy of medical devices and drugs.

The impact of healthcare regulation on patient care cannot be overstated. Effective regulations can improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and promote public health. However, poorly designed or implemented regulations can have the opposite effect, leading to decreased access to care, reduced quality of care, and increased costs.

The Importance of RNs in Influencing the Regulatory Process

As healthcare professionals who are intimately involved in patient care, registered nurses have a unique perspective on the impact of regulations on patient outcomes. They are well-positioned to identify gaps in the current regulatory system and advocate for changes that could improve patient care.

RNs can also play a critical role in educating policymakers and regulators about the impact of proposed regulations on patient care. By providing firsthand accounts of the challenges they face in delivering quality care, RNs can help policymakers understand the real-world impact of regulations.

Opportunities for RNs to Participate in the Regulatory Process

There are several opportunities for registered nurses to participate in the regulatory process. These include:

• Serving on advisory committees: Many regulatory bodies have committees or task forces that provide input on proposed regulations. RNs can apply to serve on these committees and provide their perspective on the impact of regulations on patient care.
• Writing comment letters: When regulations are proposed, the regulatory body typically solicits public comment. RNs can write letters to provide their perspective on the impact of the proposed regulation on patient care.
• Lobbying policymakers: RNs can also lobby policymakers at the local, state, and national levels to advocate for changes to regulations that would improve patient care.

Factors That Impact Registered Nurses’ Ability to Influence National Government Health Policy

As healthcare professionals, registered nurses (RNs) play a critical role in advocating for patients and influencing healthcare policy. However, the ability of RNs to shape national government health policy is impacted by several factors. This article will explore the various factors that impact registered nurses’ ability to influence national government health policy, including education, leadership, collaboration, communication, and public perception.

Introduction

Registered nurses are often the first line of care for patients and have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be used to improve healthcare policy. Nurses’ ability to influence health policy can impact patient outcomes, health equity, and the quality of care provided in the United States.

Education

Education is one of the most critical factors that impact nurses’ ability to influence health policy. Nurses with advanced degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), have a more extensive understanding of health policy and how it impacts patient outcomes. Nurses with advanced degrees can take on leadership roles, serve as policy advisors, and work with lawmakers to improve healthcare policy.

Leadership

Leadership is another critical factor that impacts nurses’ ability to influence health policy. Nurses who take on leadership roles can use their experience and knowledge to advocate for patients and improve healthcare policy. Nurses in leadership positions can influence the decision-making process, develop policies that prioritize patient safety, and work with lawmakers to enact changes that benefit patients.

Collaboration

Collaboration is essential in healthcare, and it is also essential for nurses to influence health policy. Nurses must work with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurse practitioners, and healthcare administrators, to develop policies that improve patient outcomes. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals can also help nurses develop a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare policy and how it impacts patient care.

Communication

Effective communication is critical for nurses to influence health policy. Nurses must be able to communicate with lawmakers, policymakers, and the public about the importance of healthcare policy changes. Effective communication can help nurses build relationships with policymakers, educate the public on healthcare policy, and gain support for policy changes that benefit patients.

Public Perception

Public perception of nurses and the nursing profession can impact nurses’ ability to influence health policy. Nurses must work to change the public’s perception of the nursing profession and highlight the important role nurses play in healthcare. By changing public perception, nurses can gain more support for healthcare policy changes that prioritize patient care.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registered nurses play a critical role in shaping national government health policy. The ability of nurses to influence healthcare policy is impacted by several factors, including education, leadership, collaboration, communication, and public perception. By addressing these factors, nurses can improve their ability to advocate for patients and influence healthcare policy changes that benefit patients.

FAQs

1. Why is education important for nurses to influence healthcare policy?

• Education is essential because nurses with advanced degrees have a more extensive understanding of healthcare policy and how it impacts patient outcomes. Nurses with advanced degrees can take on leadership roles, serve as policy advisors, and work with lawmakers to improve healthcare policy.

2. How can nurses take on leadership roles to influence healthcare policy?

• Nurses can take on leadership roles in healthcare organizations, advocacy groups, and political organizations to influence healthcare policy.

3. Why is collaboration important for nurses to influence healthcare policy?

• Collaboration is essential because nurses must work with other healthcare professionals to develop policies that improve patient outcomes. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals can also help nurses develop a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare policy and how it impacts patient care.

Nursing Role in Legislation and Law Making

Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, not just by caring for patients but also in policy-making and legislation. The nursing profession is at the forefront of healthcare policymaking and advocacy, with nurses working to create laws and regulations that benefit the public and the profession. In this article, we will discuss the nursing role in legislation and law making.

Overview of Legislation and Law Making

Before we dive into the nursing role in legislation and law making, it’s important to understand what these terms mean. Legislation refers to the process of creating laws, and law making is the process of making those laws a reality. In the United States, the legislative process involves introducing a bill, which is then debated and voted on by Congress. If the bill passes, it goes to the President for approval or veto.

Nurses as Advocates for Health Policy

Nurses play a critical role in healthcare policy and advocacy. They are often at the forefront of healthcare policy-making, providing expert knowledge and advice to legislators and policymakers. Nurses are uniquely positioned to advocate for policies that promote health and wellness and to identify gaps in the healthcare system.

Nursing Organizations and Lobbying

Nursing organizations play a crucial role in nursing advocacy and lobbying. They work to influence policy at the local, state, and federal levels by meeting with lawmakers, testifying at hearings, and advocating for policy changes. Nursing organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), are also responsible for developing nursing-specific policy positions and advocating for them to become law.

Nurses in Government and Politics

Nurses can also serve as elected officials, bringing their healthcare expertise to government and policymaking. Nurses in government can help shape healthcare policy by advocating for evidence-based practices, patient-centered care, and nursing-specific issues. Nurses can also run for elected office to help promote healthcare policies that align with their values and experience.

Examples of Nursing Role in Legislation and Law Making

There are many examples of the nursing role in legislation and law making. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law, expanding access to healthcare for millions of Americans. Nurses played a critical role in the passage of the ACA, advocating for its provisions and providing expert knowledge to policymakers.

Another example of the nursing role in legislation and law making is the Nurse Practice Act (NPA). The NPA is a set of laws and regulations that govern the nursing profession in each state. Nurses played a significant role in the creation of the NPA, advocating for regulations that protect patients and support the nursing profession.

Challenges in Nursing Advocacy

Despite the vital role that nurses play in healthcare policymaking, there are still challenges to nursing advocacy. One challenge is the lack of understanding of the nursing profession by lawmakers and policymakers. Many lawmakers do not understand the complexities of nursing and healthcare and may overlook the expertise of nurses.

Another challenge is the limited resources of nursing organizations. Many nursing organizations operate on limited budgets, making it difficult to fund advocacy efforts and influence policy-making. This can make it challenging for nurses to advocate effectively for policies that promote health and wellness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nurses play a critical role in legislation and law making. Nurses serve as advocates for health policy, lobbying for policies that promote health and wellness and identifying gaps in the healthcare system. Nursing organizations and nurses in government play a significant role in nursing advocacy, developing policy positions and advocating for nursing-specific issues. Despite the challenges in nursing advocacy, nurses will continue to play a vital role in healthcare policymaking, ensuring that healthcare policies align with evidence-based practices and support the nursing profession.