260n words Select an advanced professional or advanced practice nursing specialty. How has past and current regulation/legislation affected the role and scope of this nursing role? What, if any, discussions are currently underway relative to the scope and role of this specialty? What resources are available to assist nurses in advocating for these roles?
Introduction
The field of nursing has experienced significant changes in recent years, driven by various regulatory and legislative actions that have contributed to the development and evolution of advanced professional and advanced practice nursing specialties. These specialties have expanded the role and scope of nursing practice, allowing nurses to assume greater responsibilities and provide advanced levels of care. In this paper, we will explore how past and current regulation/legislation has affected a specific advanced professional or advanced practice nursing specialty. We will also delve into the ongoing discussions regarding the scope and role of this specialty and identify the available resources that can aid nurses in advocating for these roles.
Aims and Objectives
The aims of this paper are as follows:
1. To examine the impact of past and current regulation/legislation on a specific advanced professional or advanced practice nursing specialty.
2. To assess the ongoing discussions regarding the scope and role of this specialty.
3. To identify the resources available to assist nurses in advocating for advanced professional or advanced practice nursing roles.
Methodology
This paper will employ a systematic approach to gather information and analyze relevant literature. A comprehensive search will be conducted using electronic databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and CINAHL, to identify articles, research papers, and other relevant sources. The search will include keywords such as “advanced nursing specialty,” “regulation/legislation,” “scope,” and “advocacy.”
Impact of Regulation/Legislation on Advanced Nursing Specialties
Regulation and legislation have played a crucial role in shaping the practice of advanced professional and advanced practice nursing specialties. The creation and implementation of specific regulatory frameworks have allowed advanced nurses to operate within defined scopes of practice, thereby enhancing patient care and safety. For instance, the introduction of the Nurse Practitioner Competencies in 2002 by the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) provided a standardized framework for the educational preparation and practice of nurse practitioners (NPs) in the United States. This regulatory action not only defined the NPs’ scope of practice but also set standards for their education and training.
Another notable example is the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010, which expanded access to healthcare services and increased the demand for advanced practice nurses in primary care settings. The regulatory changes brought about by the ACA allowed nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists to practice to the full extent of their education and training, including ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, managing chronic conditions, and prescribing medications. Consequently, this legislation significantly expanded the scope of practice for these advanced practice nurses, enabling them to provide comprehensive care to patients across various healthcare settings.
Current Discussions on Scope and Role
Despite the progress made in the recognition and expansion of advanced nursing specialties, ongoing discussions continue to shape their scope and role. One area of discussion revolves around the autonomy and independent practice of nurse practitioners. While some states have granted full practice authority to nurse practitioners, allowing them to practice independently, other states still require physician supervision or collaboration. These discussions often center on the evidence-based practice and the demonstrated capability of nurse practitioners to provide safe and effective care without physician oversight. Advocacy efforts are ongoing to advance the role of nurse practitioners and ensure that they are able to practice to the full extent of their education and training.
Resources for Advocacy
Nurses can access various resources to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills required to advocate for advanced professional or advanced practice nursing roles. Professional organizations, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) and specialty-specific associations like the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), offer valuable resources in the form of educational materials, policy briefs, position statements, and advocacy toolkits. These resources provide nurses with evidence-based information, guidance on navigating the legislative process, and strategies for effective advocacy at the local, state, and national levels. Furthermore, continuing education programs and conferences offer opportunities for nurses to network, learn from experts in the field, and enhance their advocacy skills.
Conclusion
Regulation and legislation have significantly influenced the role and scope of advanced nursing specialties, allowing nurses to assume greater responsibilities and provide advanced levels of care. Ongoing discussions regarding the autonomy and independent practice of nurse practitioners continue to shape these specialties. Nurses can avail themselves of various resources to advocate for these roles, including professional organizations, educational materials, and continuing education programs. By remaining informed, engaging in advocacy efforts, and promoting evidence-based practice, nurses can advance and expand the role of advanced professional and advanced practice nursing specialties to benefit both the profession and patient care.