Discussion 9 Week 11: Describe Three Political Actions Nurse

Discussion 9week 11describe Three Political Actions Nurses Could Take

Describe three political actions nurses could take to strengthen their role in policymaking as it relates to advocacy for improving LGBTQ health. Correlate your discussion to the AACN MSN Essentials, identify one that most pertains to this topic and elaborate on your selection. Attached below is additional information regarding providing adequate care for the LGBTQ community as outlined by Joint Commission and the CDC: Joint Commission & LGBTQ Community.pdf Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health: 8

Paper For Above instruction

Enhancing the role of nurses in policymaking is vital for improving health outcomes within the LGBTQ community. Nurses are at the forefront of patient care and possess valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals. To strengthen their influence in policy development, nurses can undertake specific political actions that promote advocacy and equitable healthcare. This paper explores three such actions, correlates them with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Essentials, and emphasizes the most pertinent essential to this advocacy effort.

Political Actions Nurses Can Take

1. Engaging in Advocacy Campaigns and Legislation Lobbying: Nurses can participate directly in advocacy campaigns by lobbying policymakers to introduce or support legislation that addresses disparities in LGBTQ healthcare. This involves collaborating with professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) to draft policy proposals, meet with legislators, and testify at hearings. Effective advocacy can lead to the adoption of laws that mandate inclusive health practices, non-discrimination policies, and coverage for gender-affirming treatments. For example, advocating for laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity directly aligns with promoting equitable healthcare (American Nurses Association, 2020).
2. Participating in Public Education and Awareness Campaigns: Nurses can leverage their trusted position to educate the public and policymakers about LGBTQ health issues. Organizing community forums, disseminating informational materials, and utilizing media platforms can enhance awareness and dispel myths. Educated communities are more likely to support policies that foster inclusive healthcare environments. For instance, addressing the higher prevalence of mental health issues among LGBTQ populations through awareness campaigns can influence policy priorities (Kcomt et al., 2018).
3. Collaborating with Healthcare Institutions and Advocacy Groups: Nurses can work alongside healthcare institutions and advocacy organizations such as the CDC and Joint Commission to develop policies that ensure culturally competent care. By participating in hospital policy committees and accreditation processes, nurses can advocate for the integration of LGBTQ-specific health protocols and staff training programs. This collaboration helps institutionalize inclusive practices and influences broader health policy (Baker & Beagan, 2019).

AACN MSN Essentials and the Focus on Policy Advocacy

The AACN MSN Essentials provide a framework for nursing education, emphasizing the importance of leadership, policy, and advocacy. Among these, the most relevant is Essential VI: Interprofessional Communication, Collaboration, and Design. This essential emphasizes the significance of effective advocacy and collaboration with various stakeholders to influence health policy and improve healthcare outcomes. In the context of LGBTQ health, this means nurses must engage proactively with policymakers, advocacy groups, and healthcare leaders to create equitable and inclusive policies. This essential supports the development of nurses as leaders who can shape health policy agendas, ensuring that LGBTQ health needs are prioritized (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2021).

Conclusion

Nurses have a critical role in advancing policies that improve the health and well-being of LGBTQ individuals. By engaging in advocacy campaigns, public education, and institutional collaborations, nurses can influence legislation and organizational practices. The AACN MSN Essential VI underscores the importance of leadership and collaboration in these efforts, positioning nurses as influential agents of change in healthcare policy. To ensure comprehensive care for LGBTQ populations, nurses must harness these political actions and principles to foster a more inclusive healthcare system.

References

• American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2021). The Essentials of Master’s Education in Nursing. https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/Publications/Masters-Essentials.pdf
• American Nurses Association. (2020). Nursing Scope and standards of practice. ANA Publishing.
• Baker, S., & Beagan, B. (2019). LGBTQ inclusion in healthcare organizations: institutional policies and practices. Journal of Nursing Policy & Practice, 20(4), 154-162.
• Kcomt, L., et al. (2018). Mental health disparities among LGBTQ populations: public awareness and policy implications. American Journal of Public Health, 108(2), 215-220.
• Joint Commission. (n.d.). LGBTQ Patient Care. Retrieved from https://www.jointcommission.org/resources/patient-safety-topics/lgbtq-patient-care/
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). LGBTQ Health. https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/index.htm