The (AACN, 2008) outline a number of healthcare policy and advocacy competencies for the BSN-prepared nurse. Reflect on the course readings, discussion threads, and applications you have completed across this course and write a reflective essay regarding the extent to which you feel you are now prepared to: Purchase the answer to view it
Introduction:
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN, 2008) has outlined a set of healthcare policy and advocacy competencies for nurses who have completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. These competencies are designed to prepare BSN-prepared nurses to be leaders in shaping healthcare policy and advocating for the needs of patients and the nursing profession. This reflective essay will discuss the extent to which I feel prepared to fulfill these competencies, drawing on the course readings, discussion threads, and applications completed throughout this course.
Competency 1: Analyze healthcare policies for their impact on patients, nursing practice, and healthcare systems.
Throughout this course, we have examined various healthcare policies and their implications for patients, nursing practice, and healthcare systems. By critically analyzing these policies, I have developed a deeper understanding of their impact and the need for advocacy and change. For example, in one of the course readings, we discussed the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and its impact on access to healthcare for underserved populations. Through this analysis, I recognized the importance of advocating for policies that promote equitable access to healthcare and address social determinants of health.
Competency 2: Evaluate the role of nurses in shaping healthcare policy.
Through the course discussions and readings, I have gained a better understanding of the vital role nurses play in shaping healthcare policy. As frontline healthcare providers, nurses possess valuable insights and perspectives that can inform policy decisions. For example, in a discussion thread on nursing advocacy, we explored the role nurses can play in advocating for improved staffing ratios to ensure patient safety. This discussion highlighted the need for nurses to voice their concerns and actively engage in policy discussions to promote positive change.
Competency 3: Advocate for policies that promote quality and safety in healthcare.
Quality and safety are fundamental aspects of healthcare delivery, and as BSN-prepared nurses, we have a responsibility to advocate for policies that promote excellence in these areas. Throughout this course, we have examined evidence-based practices and strategies to enhance quality and safety in healthcare settings. For instance, in an application assignment, we were tasked with developing a policy proposal aimed at reducing medication errors. Through this process, I learned how to advocate for specific policy changes that can improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall quality of care.
Competency 4: Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to influence healthcare policy.
Healthcare policy-making is a complex process that requires collaboration among various stakeholders. Through the course discussions and applications, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in shaping healthcare policy. For example, in an application assignment focused on healthcare reform, we were tasked with collaborating with professionals from other disciplines to develop a comprehensive policy proposal. This experience highlighted the significance of working together with diverse perspectives and expertise to achieve meaningful policy change.
Competency 5: Engage in legislative and regulatory processes to influence healthcare policy.
Legislation and regulations play a significant role in shaping healthcare policy. This course has provided me with insights into the legislative and regulatory processes and the avenues through which nurses can engage in these processes to influence policy outcomes. Through discussions and readings on nursing advocacy, I have learned about the importance of contacting legislators, participating in public hearings, and joining professional nursing organizations that advocate for policies aligned with the nursing profession’s values and goals. These insights have equipped me to actively engage in legislative and regulatory processes to advocate for policies that positively impact healthcare and nursing practice.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this course has significantly enhanced my preparedness to fulfill the healthcare policy and advocacy competencies outlined by the AACN. Through the course readings, discussion threads, and applications, I have gained a deeper understanding of healthcare policies’ impact, the role of nurses in shaping policy, the importance of advocating for quality and safety, the value of interdisciplinary collaboration, and the avenues for engaging in legislative and regulatory processes. Armed with this knowledge and experience, I feel more confident and prepared to be a leader in healthcare policy and advocacy as a BSN-prepared nurse.