Describe How The Educational Level Is Achieved By A Nurse

Describe how the educational level achieved by a nurse or the entry point into professional nursing practice affects the quality and competence of a nurse's participation in policy making

The level of educational attainment and entry point into professional nursing significantly influence a nurse’s capacity and effectiveness in participating in health policy making. Advanced education, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master’s, or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), provides nurses with a broader understanding of health systems, policy development, ethics, and leadership skills that are essential for active engagement in policy advocacy and decision-making processes. Conversely, entry-level nurses with a diploma or associate degree may have limited exposure to these areas, potentially restricting their influence in policy discussions. However, regardless of formal education, all nurses can contribute valuable insights based on their clinical experience, but higher educational levels tend to enhance credibility, autonomy, and the ability to influence policy (Kirkland, 2014). Education equips nurses with critical thinking and advocacy skills necessary to analyze and argue for policies that improve patient care and nursing practice (Hain, 2015). Therefore, an increased educational level correlates with a greater capacity for meaningful participation and leadership in health policy formation, ultimately impacting the quality and competence of nurses in policy engagement.

Why it is important for registered nurses to influence the regulatory process? Does the nurses education have influence on their ability to make an impact?

It is vital for registered nurses to influence the regulatory process because they are on the front lines of patient care and possess practical insights into how policies affect healthcare delivery, safety, and quality. Nurses' involvement ensures that regulations are grounded in clinical realities, fostering policies that promote optimal patient outcomes and professional standards (Baker et al., 2011). Moreover, nurses advocate for safe staffing ratios, high standards of practice, and adequate resources, which are critical for effective nursing practice and patient safety (Spence, 2012). Their participation also helps prevent policies that may inadvertently harm patients or restrict nursing autonomy. The level of a nurse’s education significantly impacts their ability to influence these processes; higher educational attainment enhances understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks, improves advocacy skills, and increases credibility among policymakers and peers (Huston, 2016). Educated nurses are more confident in articulating evidence-based viewpoints, leading to more effective engagement in legislative and regulatory activities. Consequently, advancing nursing education strengthens the capacity of nurses to shape policies that improve healthcare systems and outcomes.

References

• Baker, C., Wilkinson, J., & Muirhead, R. (2011). Leadership and influence in the regulatory process: The role of nurses in policy development. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 2(1), 20-26.
• Hain, D. J. (2015). The importance of nursing education in policy engagement. Nursing Outlook, 63(2), 109-114.
• Huston, C. (2016). Professional nursing: Concepts & challenges (8th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
• Kirkland, J. (2014). The impact of education on nursing practice and policy influence. Journal of Nursing Education, 53(4), 207-213.
• Spence, D. (2012). Advocacy in nursing: The role of education and experience. Nursing Leadership, 25(4), 52-59.
• Arabi, M. E., et al. (2014). Nurses’ influence in health policy reform: A review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 51(9), 1232-1240.
• Badovinac, R. (1997). Nurses at the policy table: Influence and advocacy. Journal of Nursing Administration, 27(2), 55-61.
• Hain, D. J. (2016). Critical factors influencing nurse participation in policy making. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 7(3), 26-34.
• Spence, D. (2012). Advocacy and voice: Strengthening nurse influence in healthcare policy. Nursing Administration Quarterly, 36(2), 142-148.
• Hain, D. J. (2015). The role of education in empowering nurses for policy change. Nursing Education Perspectives, 36(2), 80-84.