Analyze how the Institute of Medicine [IOM] (2010) (now called the National Academy of Medicine) The Future of Nursing: Leading Change and advancing Health report can positively affect the future of nursing. Examine how this report can contribute towards advanced practice nurses empowerment. What strategies are required for nurses to shape their own future? How can the advanced nurse generalist gain empowerment in Nursing?
Introduction
The Institute of Medicine (IOM), now known as the National Academy of Medicine, released a groundbreaking report in 2010 titled “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.” This report outlined several key recommendations that have the potential to positively impact the future of nursing. One of the areas of focus in this report is the empowerment of advanced practice nurses (APNs). APNs, including advanced nurse generalists, play a crucial role in delivering high-quality healthcare and improving patient outcomes. This analysis will examine how the IOM report can contribute to the empowerment of APNs and the strategies required for nurses to shape their own future.
Empowerment of Advanced Practice Nurses
The IOM report advocates for the full utilization of APNs’ capabilities and highlights the importance of allowing APNs to practice to the full extent of their education and training. This recognition of APNs as valuable healthcare providers has the potential to positively impact their empowerment. By granting APNs autonomy and authority, they can make independent decisions, provide comprehensive care, and serve as leaders in their respective fields.
Furthermore, the IOM report emphasizes the need for interprofessional collaboration and the integration of teamwork in healthcare delivery. This collaborative approach acknowledges the expertise and contributions of APNs in interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Such recognition and utilization of APNs can enhance their empowerment by fostering a sense of value and respect within the healthcare system.
Strategies for Shaping the Future of Nursing
The IOM report proposes various strategies for nurses to shape their own future. One such strategy is the promotion of lifelong learning, which encourages nurses to continuously develop and update their knowledge and skills. By engaging in continuing education and pursuing advanced degrees, nurses can remain current with the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. This not only equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills but also positions them as leaders and advocates for change.
Another essential strategy highlighted in the IOM report is the creation of innovative models of care delivery. This includes promoting care coordination, expanding the use of technology in healthcare delivery, and exploring new approaches to healthcare financing. Developing and implementing these innovative models requires nurses to actively participate in healthcare policy and decision-making, thus shaping their own future.
In addition, the IOM report emphasizes the importance of leadership development for nurses. Leadership skills are vital for nurses to influence policy, drive change, and advocate for the profession. By investing in leadership development programs and opportunities, nurses can gain the necessary skills and confidence to lead and shape the future of nursing.
Empowerment of Advanced Nurse Generalists
The IOM report’s focus on APNs’ empowerment also extends to the advanced nurse generalist role. While advanced nurse generalists may not have specialized in a specific area of practice, their broad knowledge and skills allow them to provide comprehensive care across various settings and populations. The report recognizes the valuable contribution of advanced nurse generalists in primary care and calls for their increased involvement in delivering primary care services.
To gain empowerment in nursing, advanced nurse generalists must actively participate in shaping their own future. This includes advocating for their role within the healthcare system and emphasizing the unique value they bring to patient care. Moreover, advanced nurse generalists should engage in ongoing professional development to enhance their skills and expertise, ensuring they stay abreast of advancements in healthcare.
Conclusion
The IOM report serves as a catalyst for positive change in nursing practice and empowers APNs, including advanced nurse generalists. By recognizing and utilizing the full potential of APNs, the report promotes autonomy, interprofessional collaboration, and leadership among these healthcare professionals. The strategies outlined in the report, such as lifelong learning, innovative care models, and leadership development, provide a roadmap for nurses to shape their own future. This not only contributes to the empowerment of APNs but also enhances the overall quality of patient care. As nursing continues to evolve, the IOM report remains a valuable resource for advancing the profession and ensuring its relevance in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.