Discussion Topic 2: Skills for Agenda Setting
Assume that you have been invited to your state board of nursing or state nurses’ association meeting to brainstorm health policy issues. Identify an issue that you would bring before this meeting. What resources would you use? What communication techniques would you use? What agenda would you put forth? What skills are required of you as an advance practice nurse at this meeting?
need at least 200 words
APA 6th ed citations and 3 references
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor responsible for designing assignments and lectures for medical college students, I understand the importance of discussing health policy issues that affect the healthcare industry. In this context, I will discuss the skills required of an advance practice nurse to effectively participate in a state board of nursing or state nurses’ association meeting.
Answer:
One issue that I would bring forward during the meeting is the growing gap between the demand and supply of healthcare professionals, especially nurses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for registered nurses is expected to increase by about 15% by the year 2026, outpacing the growth of other job markets. However, as per the American Nurses Association, the nursing shortage could potentially affect the quality of patient care, create job burnout, and decrease job satisfaction among nurses.
To support my argument, I would use evidence-based research studies that demonstrate the correlation between nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes. Additionally, I would also highlight the cost-benefit analysis of investing in nursing education, which has a positive impact on patient outcomes and empowers nurses to take on leadership roles.
In terms of communication techniques, I would use persuasive and concise language, backed by facts and figures, to persuade the policymakers to take action. I would also use visual aids such as graphs, charts, and posters during the presentation to reinforce my message.
My agenda would involve highlighting the current nursing shortage, discussing the underlying reasons, and suggesting viable policy solutions, such as increased funding for nursing education programs, improving working conditions for nurses, and incentivizing nursing professionals to work in underserved areas.
As an advance practice nurse, the required skills to be effective during the meeting include strong communication skills, critical thinking skills, an in-depth understanding of healthcare policy, and the ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare stakeholders. Additionally, advance practice nurses must also have interdisciplinary knowledge, including understanding health disparities, leadership, and ethics.
References:
American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: In high demand. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/nursing-excellence/health-policy/nursing-in-high-demand/
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, April 9). Registered nurses. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
