Creating Change Through Advocacy

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identify a problem or concern in your organization, local community, or state in which change can occur through advocacy and legislation.
Nurses often become motivated to change aspects within the larger health care system based on their real-world experience. As such, many nurses take on an advocacy role to influence a change in regulations, policies, and laws that govern the larger health care system.

Identify a problem or concern in your organization, local community, or state. Examples of problems relevant to nursing include, but are not limited to, title “nurse” protection, sharps injury prevention, nursing shortage, nurse well-being, valuation of nursing services, etc. Research the issue you selected and use the attached “Creating Change Through Advocacy” template to complete this assignment.

You are required to cite a minimum of three sources to complete this assignment. Sources must be published within the last 5 years, appropriate for the assignment criteria, and relevant to nursing practice.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

 

Sample Solution

Problem: Nurse Burnout and Its Impact on Patient Safety and Healthcare Quality in Virginia

1. Problem Statement:

Nurse burnout is a serious and growing problem in Virginia, impacting patient safety, healthcare quality, and overall workforce stability. High workload, inadequate staffing levels, and insufficient support systems contribute to burnout, leading to increased errors, decreased patient satisfaction, and a decline in the quality of care provided.

2. Evidence and Data:

  • National Data: The American Nurses Association (ANA) reports that 99% of nurses experience burnout, with 61% reporting that they are likely to leave their current position within the next two years. This exodus is driving a nationwide nursing shortage.

  • Virginia-Specific Data: A 2022 survey by the Virginia Nurses Association (VNA) revealed that 85% of Virginia nurses reported feeling burned out, and 70% felt that staffing levels were inadequate. This underscores the severity of the problem in the state.

  • Impact on Patient Safety: Research shows a direct correlation between nurse burnout and medical errors. Studies have found that overworked and stressed nurses are more likely to experience lapses in concentration, leading to medication errors, missed diagnoses, and other preventable adverse events.

3. Advocacy Goals:

  • Increase Nurse Staffing Levels: Advocate for legislation that mandates minimum nurse-to-patient ratios in various care settings, ensuring adequate staffing to reduce workload and burnout.

  • Invest in Nurse Well-being Programs: Support initiatives that promote mental health and well-being among nurses, including access to counseling, stress management programs, and support groups.

  • Improve Work Environment: Advocate for policies that address workplace violence, provide opportunities for professional development, and foster a culture of respect and appreciation for nurses.

4. Legislative Targets:

  • Virginia General Assembly: Work with legislators to introduce and pass bills that address nurse staffing, well-being, and workload.

  • Virginia Board of Nursing: Advocate for changes in regulations that support nurse well-being and ensure safe staffing levels.

5. Advocacy Strategies:

  • Educate Legislators: Provide legislators with data and research supporting the need for action on nurse burnout.

  • Lobby for Change: Work with the VNA and other nursing organizations to lobby for legislation and policy changes.

  • Engage the Public: Raise awareness about nurse burnout and its impact on patient safety through public campaigns and media outreach.

  • Empower Nurses: Encourage nurses to participate in advocacy efforts and share their experiences with legislators and policymakers.

6. Potential Outcomes:

  • Improved Patient Safety: Adequate staffing and support systems can reduce medical errors and improve patient outcomes.

  • Enhanced Nurse Well-being: Investing in nurse well-being can increase job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and strengthen the nursing workforce.

  • Improved Healthcare Quality: A healthier and more supported nursing workforce can provide higher-quality care, leading to better patient satisfaction and improved healthcare outcomes.

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