WEEK 11- Discussion #8 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. APA FORMAT , 250 WORDS. Attached below is additional information regarding providing adequate care for the LGBTQ community as outlined by Joint Commission and the CDC: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health:
Introduction
Nurses play a crucial role in shaping healthcare policies and advocating for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ community. In order to strengthen their role in policymaking, nurses can engage in several political actions that will contribute to improving LGBTQ health. This discussion will outline three key political actions that nurses can take to advocate for the advancement of LGBTQ health, while also correlating with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Essentials. One particular MSN Essential that pertains to this topic will be highlighted and elaborated upon.
Political Action #1: Education and Awareness
One important political action that nurses can undertake is to educate themselves and others about the specific health needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals. By staying updated on research and evidence-based practice recommendations, nurses can ensure that they provide culturally competent care to LGBTQ patients and serve as reliable sources of information for their colleagues and the wider healthcare community. Nurses can also develop and deliver educational programs to their peers and healthcare professionals on LGBTQ health, in order to promote greater awareness and understanding.
This political action aligns with the AACN MSN Essential VIII: Clinical Prevention and Population Health for Improving Health, which emphasizes the role of nurses in health promotion, disease prevention, and population health management. By proactively educating themselves and others about LGBTQ health, nurses contribute to the improvement of population health outcomes for this marginalized population.
Political Action #2: Advocating for Policy Change
Another significant political action that nurses can take is to actively advocate for policy changes at local, state, and national levels that address the unique healthcare needs of LGBTQ individuals. This may involve lobbying elected officials, participating in legislative hearings, and engaging in grassroots activism. Nurses can work together with LGBTQ advocacy organizations to highlight the importance of policies that support LGBTQ health, such as anti-discrimination laws, inclusive healthcare policies, and legal recognition of same-sex relationships.
This political action aligns with the AACN MSN Essential IX: Organizational and Systems Leadership, which emphasizes the importance of nurse leaders in effecting change in healthcare systems through policy development and advocacy. By actively engaging in policy change efforts, nurses demonstrate their leadership skills and contribute to the creation of healthcare systems that are inclusive, equitable, and sensitive to the needs of LGBTQ patients.
Political Action #3: Research and Evidence Generation
Engaging in research and evidence generation is another crucial political action that nurses can undertake to strengthen their role in policymaking related to LGBTQ health. By conducting rigorous research studies and generating evidence on the health disparities faced by LGBTQ individuals, nurses can provide the necessary data to guide policy development and inform healthcare practice. Additionally, nurses can actively participate in LGBTQ health research networks and collaborations, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
This political action aligns with the AACN MSN Essential V: Healthcare Policy, Finance, and Regulatory Environments, which emphasizes the importance of nurses’ understanding of healthcare policies and their ability to influence policy development. Through research and evidence generation, nurses not only contribute to the scientific understanding of LGBTQ health but also position themselves as experts who can inform and shape healthcare policies that promote the well-being of this population.
Conclusion
Nurses have the potential to make a significant impact in improving LGBTQ health through their participation in political actions and policymaking. By engaging in education and awareness initiatives, advocating for policy change, and conducting research, nurses can strengthen their role as advocates and contribute to the advancement of healthcare policies that support LGBTQ individuals. These actions correlate with various AACN MSN Essentials and emphasize the importance of clinical prevention, leadership, and healthcare policy in nursing practice. It is crucial for nurses to be proactive in their advocacy efforts to create a healthcare environment that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of the LGBTQ community.