Review the Institute of Medicine’s 2010 report “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health.” Write a 750-1,000 word paper discussing the influence of the IOM report on nursing practice. Include the following: Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide. An abstract is not required.
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) released its report titled “The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health” in 2010, which has greatly influenced nursing practice since its publication. This report aimed to address the challenges faced by the healthcare system in the United States and provide recommendations to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare delivery. The influence of the IOM report on nursing practice can be observed through its impact on educational requirements, nursing leadership, diversity in the nursing workforce, and the promotion of interprofessional collaboration.
One of the most significant impacts of the IOM report on nursing practice is evident in the area of educational requirements for nurses. The report highlights the importance of increasing the proportion of nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to 80% by 2020. This recommendation has led to an increased emphasis on higher education and a shift towards BSN as the preferred entry-level degree for professional nursing practice. Many healthcare organizations and academic institutions have responded by implementing programs and initiatives to encourage nurses to pursue higher education and obtain advanced degrees. This focus on academic preparation aligns with the evolving healthcare needs and advances in medical science, ensuring that nurses have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide high-quality care.
Furthermore, the IOM report emphasizes the importance of nursing leadership in transforming the healthcare system. It recognizes the vital role of nurses in influencing healthcare policy decisions, advocating for patient-centered care, and participating in interprofessional collaborative teams. As a result, there has been a growing recognition of the need for nurses to assume leadership positions at all levels of healthcare organizations. This has led to the development of leadership programs, mentorship opportunities, and the inclusion of nurses in decision-making processes. Nurses are now encouraged to pursue leadership roles, such as nurse managers, directors, and executives, to contribute to the improvement of healthcare outcomes.
The IOM report also addresses the need for diversity in the nursing workforce to better reflect the population it serves. It advocates for increasing the diversity of nurses to reduce health disparities and improve culturally competent care. This recommendation has prompted efforts to increase the recruitment and retention of underrepresented minorities in nursing, as well as the provision of cultural competency training for nurses. By promoting diversity, the healthcare system can better meet the needs of diverse patient populations and deliver equitable care.
Additionally, the IOM report promotes interprofessional collaboration, recognizing the importance of teamwork in delivering safe and effective care. It emphasizes the need for nurses to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, pharmacists, and social workers, to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. This has led to the development of interprofessional education programs, where healthcare students from various disciplines learn together, fostering mutual respect and understanding. The report also encourages healthcare organizations to create practice environments that support interprofessional collaboration, enhancing communication and teamwork among healthcare providers.
In conclusion, the IOM report has significantly influenced nursing practice since its release in 2010. It has shaped educational requirements, nursing leadership, diversity in the workforce, and the promotion of interprofessional collaboration. Through its recommendations, the report has paved the way for advancements in nursing education, leadership opportunities, and the provision of culturally competent and collaborative care. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative to further integrate the recommendations of the IOM report into nursing practice to ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care.