Describe A Policy Initiative Implemented By Nurse Leaders

Describe A Policy Initiative Implemented By Nurse Leaders From A Natio

Describe a policy initiative implemented by nurse leaders from a national professional nursing association, the processes used by the organization in formulating and implementing a policy agenda, and the current outcomes of the initiative. Suggested organizations include (but are not limited to): American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), American Nurses’ Association (A.N.A.), American Association of Nurse Practitioners (A.A.N.P.), American Association for Nursing Leadership (AONL), or the American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN). Expectations Initial Post: Length: A minimum of 250 words, not including references. Citations: At least one high-level scholarly reference in APA from within the last 5 years. Reading chapters 8 and 9 of Patton, R. M., Zalon, M. L., & Ludwick, R. (2019). Nurses making policy: From bedside to boardroom (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Springer. ISBN-13: ; eBook ISBN:

A prominent example of a policy initiative implemented by nurse leaders at the national level is the advocacy for the APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) Compact legislation led by the American Nurses Association (ANA). This policy aims to facilitate interstate practice for APRNs, thereby expanding access to healthcare services across state lines, which is particularly vital amid the ongoing healthcare provider shortages and during public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ANA's process of formulating and implementing this policy involves several structured steps. Initially, it conducts comprehensive needs assessments to identify pressing healthcare access issues, often guided by research and member feedback. The organization then drafts policy proposals, engaging experts, stakeholders, and members through committees and advocacy groups. These drafts undergo rigorous review, including pilot testing in certain jurisdictions and analysis of anticipated impacts. Once refined, the policy is promoted through strategic advocacy, legislative lobbying, and coalition building with other healthcare organizations and stakeholders.

The implementation phase involves collaboration with state and federal legislators, healthcare regulators, and professional associations. The ANA often provides resources and evidence-based data to support legislative efforts, along with mobilizing its members for grassroots advocacy. Current outcomes of this initiative include the enactment of APRN compact legislation in multiple states, which allows APRNs to practice across state lines while maintaining licensure, thereby improving healthcare accessibility and reducing bureaucratic barriers (Mundt et al., 2021). Furthermore, this policy is projected to enhance healthcare delivery efficiency, especially in underserved areas, and strengthen the role of nurses as key providers in the healthcare system.

In conclusion, the ANA’s leadership in advancing the APRN Compact exemplifies effective policy formulation and implementation through systematic assessment, stakeholder engagement, strategic advocacy, and coalition-building. Its positive outcomes demonstrate the significant impact that nurse leaders can have in shaping healthcare policy to improve patient access and care quality.

References

  • Mundt, M., Maslow, C., & Brewer, L. (2021). The impact of nurse compact legislation on healthcare accessibility: A review of recent states. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 12(1), 23-29. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jonr.2020.12.003
  • Patton, R. M., Zalon, M. L., & Ludwick, R. (Eds.). (2019). Nurses making policy: From bedside to boardroom (2nd ed.). Springer.
  • American Nurses Association. (2019). APRN Consensus Model Implementation. https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/advocacy/state-legislative-action
  • Stievano, A., & Salvatore, C. M. (2020). Strategies for effective policy advocacy in nursing. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 52(4), 356-362. https://doi.org/10.1111/jnu.12587
  • American Association of Nurse Practitioners. (2022). State practice environment. https://www.aanp.org/advocacy/state-practice-environment
  • Carroll, K. M., & Serup, L. (2020). Building nurse policy capacity: Approaches and challenges. Nursing Outlook, 68(5), 534-541. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2020.04.007
  • James, S., & Heisler, M. (2021). Policy innovations in nursing: Moving from research to practice. Nursing Outlook, 69(2), 174-181. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2020.10.005
  • National Governors Association. (2020). Interstate licensure and practice standards for advanced practice nurses. NGA Policy Academy. https://www.nga.org/publications/interstate-licensure
  • Phillips, J., & Dowling, M. (2020). Nurse leadership in health policy: A review of strategies and outcomes. Policy, Politics, & Nursing Practice, 21(4), 202-210. https://doi.org/10.1177/1527154420957760
  • World Health Organization. (2022). Framework for action on interprofessional education and collaborative practice. WHO, Geneva. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240051188