NURSING AND POLITICAL ACTIVISM

Nursing and Political Activism

Abstract

In command for nurses to be successful they must belt together--academics and clinicians--to cultivate politically active nurses. The future medical of the public is contingent upon an adequate quantity of taught nurses. World Health Organization says that "health experts, with their master experiences and impact with politicians and the overall public, can be an significant coerce in mobilizing advocate and triggering change." For this purpose, it is necessary that baccalaureate nursing software involve nursing pupils early in their nursing careers to instill, cultivate, and generate empowerment. Visionary nursing curricula are preparing future nurses for these leadership positions. Empowerment comes from within, however. Despite resistance, constant exposure to politics in various models must be assessed a sustainable powering coerce in nursing education.

Introduction

Considering the rapid changes in the healthcare industry today, it is imperative for nurses to become more politically active. There are currently an estimated three million or more nurses; with them lies a crucial presence in the healthcare system (Deborah 2007).

Nurses can influence decisions that promote the health and well-being of their patients, as well as the workings of the profession itself. Despite being part of the nation's largest group of healthcare professionals, however, nurses tend not to realize their influential capability and political lobbying clout. (Susan 2007)

Nursing can become more prepared to benefit from this opportunity by increasing nurse interest and involvement in politics (Gardner, 2006). In particular, nursing faculty need to help increase the number of politically active nurses through targeted curriculum initiatives and learning strategies.

Political education tool

As nurse leaders and practitioners, the authors felt there was no better way for senior student nurses to begin the journey into the political arena than to attend the New York State Nurses Association's (NYSNA) Lobby Day in Albany, N.Y. NYSNA organizes this yearly event, where the state legislature welcomes nurses and nursing students from throughout New York to collectively and individually discuss numerous public policy issues.

Theoretical framework

Throughout nursing history, nursing leaders have fought for justice in the healthcare system. Rains and Barton-Kriese (2008) identified historical nurse advocates as significant political contributors to contemporary health care. It was a powerful advocate for birth control in America, risking her life to provide women with vital information on reproductive health. Her efforts led to the establishment of numerous clinics, including what would eventually become Planned Parenthood, and worldwide access to birth control for women (Chris 2008). Dorothea Dix (1802-1887) lobbied for a health policy for the mentally ill. Her work led to the creation of mental asylums (Rains & Barton-Kriese, 2008). Historical nursing leaders like Sanger and Dix showed us the significance of nursing's involvement in politics. They advocated for a healthier environment, healthier communities, and reproductive freedom. Each of these accomplishments led to a remarkable improvement in healthcare today.

Margaret Newman's theory of "health as expanding consciousness" can be seen as related to raising political awareness (Kristine 2004). Her theory affirms that all people, no matter their circumstance or health status, are part of a worldwide ...