NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

Walden University NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING – Step-By-Step Guide

This guide will demonstrate how to complete the Walden University NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING assignment based on general principles of academic writing. Here, we will show you the A, B, Cs of completing an academic paper, irrespective of the instructions. After guiding you through what to do, the guide will leave one or two sample essays at the end to highlight the various sections discussed below.

How to Research and Prepare for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

Whether one passes or fails an academic assignment such as the Walden University NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING depends on the preparation done beforehand. The first thing to do once you receive an assignment is to quickly skim through the requirements. Once that is done, start going through the instructions one by one to clearly understand what the instructor wants. The most important thing here is to understand the required format—whether it is APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.

After understanding the requirements of the paper, the next phase is to gather relevant materials. The first place to start the research process is the weekly resources. Go through the resources provided in the instructions to determine which ones fit the assignment. After reviewing the provided resources, use the university library to search for additional resources. After gathering sufficient and necessary resources, you are now ready to start drafting your paper.

How to Write the Introduction for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

The introduction for the Walden University NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING is where you tell the instructor what your paper will encompass. In three to four statements, highlight the important points that will form the basis of your paper. Here, you can include statistics to show the importance of the topic you will be discussing. At the end of the introduction, write a clear purpose statement outlining what exactly will be contained in the paper. This statement will start with “The purpose of this paper…” and then proceed to outline the various sections of the instructions.

How to Write the Body for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

After the introduction, move into the main part of the NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING assignment, which is the body. Given that the paper you will be writing is not experimental, the way you organize the headings and subheadings of your paper is critically important. In some cases, you might have to use more subheadings to properly organize the assignment. The organization will depend on the rubric provided. Carefully examine the rubric, as it will contain all the detailed requirements of the assignment. Sometimes, the rubric will have information that the normal instructions lack.

Another important factor to consider at this point is how to do citations. In-text citations are fundamental as they support the arguments and points you make in the paper. At this point, the resources gathered at the beginning will come in handy. Integrating the ideas of the authors with your own will ensure that you produce a comprehensive paper. Also, follow the given citation format. In most cases, APA 7 is the preferred format for nursing assignments.

How to Write the Conclusion for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

After completing the main sections, write the conclusion of your paper. The conclusion is a summary of the main points you made in your paper. However, you need to rewrite the points and not simply copy and paste them. By restating the points from each subheading, you will provide a nuanced overview of the assignment to the reader.

How to Format the References List for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

The very last part of your paper involves listing the sources used in your paper. These sources should be listed in alphabetical order and double-spaced. Additionally, use a hanging indent for each source that appears in this list. Lastly, only the sources cited within the body of the paper should appear here.

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Sample Answer for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

Word cloud generators have become popular tools for meetings and team-building events. Groups or teams are asked to use these applications to input words they feel best describe their team or their role. A “word cloud” is generated by the application that makes prominent the most-used terms, offering an image of the common thinking among participants of that role. 

What types of words would you use to build a nursing word cloud? Empathetic, organized, hard-working, or advocate would all certainly apply. Would you add policy-maker to your list? Do you think it would be a very prominent component of the word cloud? 

Nursing has become one of the largest professions in the world, and as such, nurses have the potential to influence policy and politics on a global scale. When nurses influence the politics that improve the delivery of healthcare, they are ultimately advocating for their patients. Hence, policy-making has become an increasingly popular term among nurses as they recognize a moral and professional obligation to be engaged in healthcare legislation. 

Also Read:

ADVOCATING FOR THE NURSING ROLE IN PROGRAM DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION

THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY EVALUATION

ASSESSING A HEALTHCARE PROGRAM/POLICY EVALUATION

GLOBAL HEALTHCARE COMPARISON MATRIX AND NARRATIVE STATEMENT

Sample Answer 2 for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

Post an explanation of at least two opportunities that exist for RNs and APRNs to actively participate in policy-making. 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 to participate in policy-making. Be specific and provide examples. 

According to studies RN and APRN participate in policymaking by evaluating the needs of the patient and point up the policy message. They take part in activities that promote health-policy advancement, for instance, by running a campaign about a public health issue. They also create awareness for other policymakers about health needs that should be addressed in the policy. They research on opportunities to help improve health policies within a macro or microenvironment. They also attend meetings related to health policies and contribute to areas they feel should be improved (Thomas et al 2016, p.3). 

According to research, nursing is the largest profession in the world. Therefore, being the majority, they have the power to influence political and policy development at the local level and state level. However, they can only succeed in influencing policies by working together with other medical professionals (Norful et al 2017, p.15-23).  

Another opportunity for nurses to influence policies is through professional nursing organizations where nurses can address health policy issues to the government through writing. They can also run for elective state positions so that they can take part in health decision making. 

Nursing ability to influence policies is limited by various factors which include lack of experience about policymaking since for several years; they have been taking part in the implementation of the policies only. Lack of knowledge since policymaking is not included in nursing education and also nurses have a challenge of limited resources such as workforce which result in limited time to engage in other matters outside nursing practice (Buerhaus et al 2017, p.40-46). 

However, the barriers can be overcome by introducing policy development in the curriculum of nursing schools and also by encouraging nurses to run for the official elective position to that they can address health policy matters directly. 

I would recommend community and state support for nurses to participate in leadership, for instance, by availing adequate resources such as labour so that they can get time to engage in policymaking activities and meetings. Recruitment of more nurses, for example, new graduate nurses with advanced knowledge can also help improve the effect of nurses in policymaking. 

References 

Buerhaus, P. I., Skinner, L. E., Auerbach, D. I., & Staiger, D. O. (2017). Four challenges facing the nursing workforce in the United States. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 8(2), 40-46. 

Norful, A., Martsolf, G., de Jacq, K., & Poghosyan, L. (2017). Utilization of registered nurses in primary care teams: A systematic review. International journal of nursing studies, 74, 15-23. 

Thomas, T. W., Seifert, P. C., & Joyner, J. C. (2016). Registered nurses leading innovative changes. OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 21(3). 

Sample Answer 3 for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

I agree with your post. The fear of participating in policy making is one reason some nurses do not participate. Nurses have become laid back and have taken a back seat allowing other professions to lead the way. Yet, as you stated, we can start small. This could be listening to speakers, taking notes, being present at events, symposiums, and events or associations where policies are implemented, and taking classes. This will better situate nurses and empower us to become ready to impact the world. We need more nurses trained in leadership and health policy training; this will empower nurses to use their professional skills to speak up for issues that affect healthcare, advocacy, health reform, and health promotion building healthy communities. This is achievable from exposure to policy knowledge in undergraduate education to more specialized graduate programs focused in every specialization on some aspects of policy and continuing education opportunities in this area (Turale & Kunaviktikul, 2019). 

Joining a nursing organization is an important way for a nurse or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse to take part in policy making. It can foster professional development. Nurses who join a professional nursing association have access to opportunities, resources, and knowledge that they might not otherwise have (Kathleen Gaines, 2019). Lobbying is also a way for nurses and APRNs to act. The clear intention of directing these interactions to specific goals (influencing public policy and bills) can distinguish nursing lobbyists from other types of lobbyists. Lobbying is a way to do so to achieve the desired change. Nursing lobbyists work in a variety of medical institutions and are involved at the local, state, and federal levels (Bradley University, 2020). 

One of the challenges that you mention is that a person must be an excellent public speaker/ communicator. This would be important to successfully lobby. Taking speech courses through a local college or university might be beneficial. A person could also take part in situations that would help a person prepare themselves to speak publicly. Starting out small, like giving a talk at one’s place of employment or maybe at a family function. There are several videos available on the internet and several sites and books on how to be a better speaker. Thank you!   

References 

Kathleen Gaines News and Education Editor. (n.d.). You should join a nursing organization. here’s why. Nurse.org. https://nurse.org/articles/benefits-of-nursing-organizations/  

Links to an external site. 

Turale, S., & Kunaviktikul, W. (2019). The contribution of nurses to health policy and advocacy requires leaders to provide training and mentorship. International Nursing Review, 66(3), 302–304. https://doi.org/10.1111/inr.12550  

Sample Answer 4 for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

 Registered nurses (RN) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) can actively participate in policy-making in several ways. Policy-making involves having a team of participants in charge of finding solutions to social problems (Milstead & Short, 2019). One of the ways RNs and APRNs can participate in policymaking is through membership in state and national nurses’ associations. Nurse associations are responsible for lobbying and getting involved in healthcare legislature. Each nurse organization has an advocacy or policy section. Once an individual becomes a member of an organization, they can join the advocacy group to learn how policies work and how they can make an impact by attending local, state, or federal legislative sessions (Morris, 2023).  

One of the challenges noted in policy marking is that many nurses do not engage in creating policies, even on the local level. Target programs can be developed for nurses to increase their awareness and involvement in health policy (Hajizadeh et al., 2021). Joining local nursing organizations can also help to increase awareness of health policies.

Nurses must learn and understand policy-making to maximize their impact in the field. Nurses protect healthcare quality by contributing knowledge, experience, and influence to health policies, laws, and regulations (Hajizadeh et al., 2021). This can be done by having nurses run for local, state, and national office positions. Running for office is an essential way to be present and have a voice in important decisions that affect nursing care, patients, and the health system as a whole (Morris, 2023).

This presents a challenge because many nurses are not aware they qualify to run for official positions. Serving in leadership roles and being available to be appointed into office are great opportunities to increase nurses’ voice in policy making. For instance, Marilyn Tavenner was the first nurse to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services during the Obama administration (Milstead & Short, 2019). Also, collaborating with other local candidates can expose nurses to policy-making (Morris, 2023). Nurses have the capacity to change health care for individuals and must continue to advocate for health policies that affect numerous lives locally and nationally.

Nurses have frontline experience and expertise in patient care. Our insight into healthcare challenges, patient needs, and best practices is valuable when shaping policies prioritizing patient safety, quality of care, and positive health outcomes.

Policy-Making Opportunities

Registered Nurses (RNs) and Advance Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) have numerous opportunities to participate actively in policy-making. RNs and APRNs can join and actively engage with professional nursing associations and organizations. These groups often advocate for local, state, and national nursing-related policy changes. RNs and APRNs can also participate in legislative and regulatory processes by voicing their opinions and expertise to policymakers (American Nurses Association, 2017). This can involve meeting with elected officials, attending public hearings, and contributing to public comment periods on proposed healthcare-related policies. Active involvement in these processes helps ensure that the voices and perspectives of nurses are considered in shaping healthcare policies. By actively participating in policy-making through these opportunities, RNs and APRNs can play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare and improving patient care.

Challenges to Opportunities

    Some challenges to these opportunities include limited policy knowledge and understanding the intricacies of policy-making can be difficult for those unfamiliar with the process. To overcome this, nurses can attend workshops or training sessions on policy advocacy (Chiu et al., 2021). Nurses may also need more support and progress on their proposals. To overcome this, persistence is essential in policy advocacy, and nurses should continuously refine their messaging, engage in discussions, and seek alternative pathways (Chiu et al., 2021).  By recognizing some challenges and taking proactive steps to overcome them, nurses can be more effective advocates for positive policy changes that advance healthcare and nursing practice.

Strategies to Better Advocate

    To better advocate for these opportunities, nurses need to participate in networking and collaborating. Establish strong partnerships between nursing organizations, policy advocacy groups, and other healthcare stakeholders to amplify nurses’ collective voices in policy discussions. Facilitate networking events, online forums, and virtual meet-ups to connect nurses with policymakers, allowing them to share their expertise and insights directly (NurseJournal, 2022). Another strategy is to showcase accomplishments by highlighting the achievements of nurses who have made significant contributions to policy-making and showcase their success stories through articles, videos, and social media (NurseJournal, 2022). Sharing real-life examples of how nurses’ involvement in policy-making has led to positive changes in patient care, healthcare systems, and nursing practice.

References

American Nurses Association. (2017). Federal advocacy. https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/federal/

Chiu, P., Cummings, G. G., Thorne, S., & Schick-Makaroff, K. (2021). Policy advocacy and nursing organizations: A scoping review. Policy,

    politics & nursing practice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8600587/

NurseJournal. (2022). Professional networking in nursing. https://nursejournal.org/resources/networking-in-nursing/

Sample Answer 5 for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

What are some words that come to mind when you think of nursing? How about, Caring, Trusting, Dedicated, Empathetic? A nurse is so many things, they are you care giver, your friend, educator, therapist, and biggest advocate. They can also be a leader, role model and change maker. Those are some things to name a few but we all know the list goes on. Being in a role that encumbers all those amazing things puts you as a prime candidate to make true change in the healthcare system and there are many things that one can do to ensure they are making the impact that they can. When trying to make change or get involved in politics and policy, we tend to thing on a larger scale such as government and legislation but there are many things a nurse or APRN – Advanced Practice Registered Nurse can do on a smaller scale that can have an overall big impact on change that can affect for a better healthcare system or patient care.

            One example of an opportunity that exists for RNs or APRNs to actively participate in policy making is to join a facility committee. “As a nurse, you can make a difference and increase your voice and leadership skills by being a valuable member of a hospital committee. Committees serve to make decisions or plans for a larger group of people, which frequently involves finding a solution to a problem.” (Nock, B., 2020). For example, when I was a Registered Nurse in an Acute Care Hospital on the Telemetry Unit, I was a committee member on several different entities. One of the committees I was a part of was UPC – Unit Practice Council which was a Unit based committee that met once a month to discuss different agenda topics, good or bad, that where in correlation with our Telemetry Unit. During these meetings we would discuss specific scenarios and collaborate to see if we can find a solution or better means to tackle a subject at hand. This committee then met with a larger committee on a separate date that month called the PPC – Professional Practice Council. In this committee, the appointed individuals from the UPC committees (one representing every unit in the hospital) would be the liaison speaking of things/items discussed to present in the PPC meetings. This meeting allowed all Units to meet and collaborate for more fluid process changes, to compare ideas and to suggest alternative methods and standards of care. When deliberating the thought on “can I make a difference?” one may say “I am just one nurse, what can I do that will truly change things better?!”. This is a prime example, of how one nurse can speak up in the UPC, and have it heard by the masses in the PPC meeting. These two day a month meeting had a large impact on the hospital in a whole so yes, one nurse can be heard and can truly make a difference. An example of change making from another hospital committee I was in was the Stroke Committee. I worked closely with the Nurse Stroke Coordinator who oversaw all the hospitals Stroke Patients and data. We went quarterly to the New Jersey Stroke Consortium committee meetings which help every Stroke designated hospital representative in one place to discuss the state laws and regulations in relation to Stroke care and to compare information and date throughout all different state hospitals. This too had a large impact on how the current algorithm was being executed and if changes needed to be made. A challenge for this type of participation from RNs and APRNs may be that they are not sure how what committees are available and how to become a member in one. A method that can be used to overcome this challenge could be better advertisements of the committees amongst the hospital or organizations such as emails, flyers, or huddles.

            Another example of an opportunity that exists for RNs and APRNs to actively participate in that can affect policymaking is the act of protesting or striking. A challenge one would face with this method is the negative stigma that is associated with the word. It may seem a big extreme in its tactic but sometimes it is the best option when push comes to shove. A way to address this challenge is to show by example. If done appropriately and respectfully it can be a vastly effective method. Freedom of speech, letting them know loud and proud the stance at stake is our right as an American. “The First Amendment protects your right to assemble and express your views through protest.” (American Civil Liberties Union, 2023). Fitting for the most recent holiday we had, Martin Luther King Day who though was not a nurse, he was a pioneer in making change through assembling and was known for his words of wisdom that demanding change but did not seek violence. It is a method that gets the attention of all, especially if it brings about the news and media. A prime example of this is the current protest in the news from Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. This was a strike and protest that was led over a series of days by the nursing staff to demand safer patient care and better nurse to patient ratios. This created noise amongst the hospital, the state, and the nation. The result was positive in achieving their mission, better and safer nurse to patient ratios. Seeing this and how it made a difference in this hospital will have an unknowing overall effect on healthcare. This is what worked and what was needed to be done to have policy change. This may spike a rise in other nurses trying to same method to follow suit in hopes of the same outcome. One voice is only one voice but when one voice speaks in harmony with hundreds of others, change happens.

References:

Breaking: NYC Nurse Strike Ends as Nysna Declares Historic Victories at Montefiore and Mount Sinai. New York State Nurses Association, 12 Jan. 2023, https://www.nysna.org/press/2023/breaking-nyc-nurse-strike-ends-nysna-declares-historic-victories-montefiore-and-mountLinks to an external site..

 Know Your Rights: Protesters’ Rights. American Civil Liberties Union, 2023, https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/protesters-rightsLinks to an external site..

Nock, Bethany. “8 Qualities of an Effective Healthcare Committee Member.” 8 Qualities of an Effective Healthcare Committee Member, 4 Aug. 2020, https://www.gebauer.com/blog/8-qualities-of-an-effective-healthcare-committee-memberLinks to an external site..

Sample Answer 6 for NURS 6050 THE ROLE OF THE RN/APRN IN POLICY-MAKING

Nursing is one of the largest professions in the world, making nurses influential in policymaking based on their roles as patient advocates. Nurses influence the politics associated with improved care delivery leading to the improvement of patient health care delivery (Anders, 2021). Nurses participate in policymaking in different ways including being members of professional nursing associations like the American Nurses Association (ANA) and running for office as an elected representatives at state and federal levels. Nurses’ associations have groups that lobby legislators and impact policies that influence and affect the administration of health. By being members of these associations, nurses can contact and collaborate with advocacy and policy boards to find ways to advance best practices (Etowa et al., 2023). Running for office is a powerful way of presenting important issues and being present in critical decisions that impact nursing care, patient care, and the entire healthcare system. The involvement as an elected representative also provides a chance to draft bills for consideration in Congress or at the state legislature.

The core challenges associated with these opportunities include not being active in professional associations, lack of interest by nurses to run for office, limited resources and skills, and organizational leadership support. For instance, while nurses can be members of professional associations like ANA and others, they may not be interested in other aspects like lobbying or advocacy. Some may also possess limited skills and competencies to help in policymaking yet others face hostilities in their attempts to run for office. However, they can overcome these challenges through advanced education and training, the application of evidence-based practices, and being active in their professional associations (Inayat et al., 2023). These opportunities implore nurses, including RNs and APRNs, to work collaboratively with all stakeholders.

The two strategies to better advocate or communicate the availability of these opportunities in policymaking include enhancing nurses’ education and developing a positive organizational culture that supports a transformative approach to care delivery (Milstead et al., 2019). For instance, advanced education will prepare nurses to enhance their understanding of policymaking to encourage them to participate. Again, a positive organizational culture supports advanced education and training that allows nurses to better their perspectives and skills.  

References

Anders, R. L. (2021, January). Engaging nurses in health policy in the era of COVID‐19.

            Nursing Forum, 56(1):89-94. DOI: 10.1111/nuf.12514

Etowa, J., Vukic, A., Aston, M., Iduye, D., Mckibbon, S., George, A., … & Dol, J. (2023).

Experiences of nurses and midwives in policy development in low and middle-income countries: Qualitative systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances, 5, 100116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnsa.2022.100116

Inayat, S., Younas, A., Andleeb, S., Rasheed, S. P., & Ali, P. (2023). Enhancing nurses’

involvement in policy-making: A qualitative study of nurse leaders. International Nursing Review, 70(3):297-306. https://doi.org/10.1111/inr.12828

Milstead, J. A., & Short, N. M. (2019). Health policy and politics: A nurse’s guide (6th ed.).

            Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.