Discuss how professional nursing organizations support the field of nursing and how they advocate for nursing practice. Explain the value professional nursing organizations have in advocacy and activism related to patient care. Choose a professional nursing organization that relates to your specialty area of interest. Discuss how this organization keeps its members informed of health care changes and opportunities the organization provides for continuing education and professional development.
Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to “RN-BSN Discussion Question Rubric” and “RN-BSN Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.
Professional nursing organizations play a crucial role in supporting the field of nursing and advocating for nursing practice. These organizations provide a platform for nurses to come together, share knowledge, and collectively address issues affecting the profession and patient care. One such organization is the American Nurses Association (ANA), which is the premier organization representing the interests of the nation’s 4 million registered nurses.
The ANA supports the field of nursing in various ways. Firstly, it offers resources and educational opportunities to help nurses stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in patient care. This ensures that nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver high-quality care to patients. Additionally, the ANA advocates for nursing practice at both the state and national levels, influencing healthcare policy decisions that impact nurses and patients alike. Through lobbying efforts and policy initiatives, the ANA works to ensure that nurses have a voice in shaping healthcare legislation and regulations.
In terms of advocacy and activism related to patient care, professional nursing organizations like the ANA serve as powerful advocates for patients. By promoting policies that prioritize patient safety, access to healthcare, and quality of care, these organizations strive to improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare system. Through initiatives such as promoting evidence-based practice, advocating for nurse-patient ratios, and addressing healthcare disparities, nursing organizations play a vital role in advancing patient-centered care.
As a psychiatric mental health nurse, I am particularly interested in the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA). This organization provides valuable resources and support for nurses working in the mental health field. APNA keeps its members informed of healthcare changes through publications, conferences, and online forums. Additionally, APNA offers numerous opportunities for continuing education and professional development, including certification programs, webinars, and workshops. By staying connected with APNA, psychiatric mental health nurses can stay updated with the latest developments in their field and continue to enhance their practice to better serve their patients.
References:
American Nurses Association. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/
American Psychiatric Nurses Association. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.apna.org/