Research a professional nursing organization. Discuss any policies and candidates that the organization opposes.
Professional nursing organization
Full Answer Section
Policies the ANA Opposes:
The ANA actively lobbies for legislation and policies that benefit nurses and patients. However, they also oppose policies they believe will have negative consequences. Here are a few examples:
- Nurse-to-Patient Ratios: The ANA opposes mandatory nurse-to-patient staffing ratios at the federal level. While they advocate for safe staffing, they believe a "one-size-fits-all" approach might not be suitable for all situations. Instead, they support legislation requiring hospitals to develop nurse staffing plans based on patient needs and acuity levels.
- Scope of Practice Restrictions: The ANA opposes limitations on the scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). They believe APRNs are qualified to provide a wider range of services, including prescribing medications and ordering diagnostic tests, improving patient access to care.
- Cuts to Medicaid and Medicare: The ANA opposes cuts to government-funded healthcare programs like Medicaid and Medicare. These programs provide essential health insurance coverage for millions of Americans, including many who rely on nursing care. Cuts to these programs could lead to reduced access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.
- Workplace Violence: The ANA opposes workplace violence against nurses. They advocate for legislation mandating hospitals to implement workplace violence prevention programs to protect nurses from physical and verbal assaults.
Candidates:
The ANA does not endorse specific candidates for political office. However, they may oppose candidates who support policies the ANA believes are detrimental to nurses or patients. For example, the ANA might oppose a candidate advocating for significant cuts to healthcare funding or restrictions on nurse staffing.
Finding More Information:
The ANA website (https://www.nursingworld.org/) is a valuable resource to learn more about their policies, lobbying efforts, and positions on various healthcare issues.
Sample Answer
Professional Nursing Organization: American Nurses Association (ANA)
The American Nurses Association (ANA) is the largest professional nursing organization in the United States, representing registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs), and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). They advocate for nurses' rights, influence healthcare policy, and promote excellence in nursing practice.