Question

15. Political Activism in Nursing: Communities, Organizations, Government Policy and Politics: Not Just in Washington, D.C Professional Organizations: Strength in Numbers are Benefits of Joining a Professional Organization

Answer 1

POLITICAL ACTIVISM IN NURSING

United we stand : preparing nursing students for political activism .political activism for health care workers is a crucial complement to clinical practice.Nurses are in a unique position to no only provide bedside care but also to advocate for change within the political arena and the community at large.It doesn't matter whether you identify as a democrat or a republican.In nurses professional lives,they rise above it all to make sure their patients get the care they need

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

We all know how busy nurses are,but there are simple,relatively quick ways to become more engaged

• Start in your workplace or community

the workplace is a natural place for nurses to become advocates.when you notice an issue at work,report it to those that can readily affect change

• Join your professional association

When you are a member of ANA, you will be able to stay updated on pieces of legislation that affects nurses and patients.You can also join ANA at the state level to understand local issues.no one can track everything going on politically themselves.you need the help of an organization or some group

• Get to know your elected officials

It is important to know who represents you,so you can get in touch with them

• Share your advocacy on social media

Although politicians pay attention to social media,it is not the best way to get in touch with them to share your beliefs.To do that ,it is more effective to call ,send an email,write a letter,or attend a town hall meeting.However social media does have an important role in advocacy.sharing your passion for a cause,can hep inspire others to engage

• write about your experience as a nurse

Volunteer for a campaign:includes,

• stuff envelop
• canvas a neighborhood
• make phone calls

Since the beginning of mans existence ,there have been documented examples of strength in numbers.while the mission of association may differ,the common denominator is that an association exists to serve its members and the mission for which it exists.just as guilds did centuries ago, establishing and maintaining a fair operating environment is vital to the success of any group.this can be accomplished using both formal and informal advocacy efforts.Also important is cultivating a positive image about the group through public relations and communication efforts .these functions work hand in hand to change public perceptions and to enhance political efforts

BENEFITS OF JOINING A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION

While each organization has its own advantages most associations offer some of the following common benefits

• Exclusive online resources
• Networking opportunities
• Professional development
• Education
• Discounted or free publications
• Seminars and conferences

Depending on the particular professional organization there could be several additional benefits following are some of them

1. Resume builder
2. Job hunting
3. Support systems
4. Political clout
5. Civic leadership
6. Finding your passion
7. Health insurance and others

Membership to a professional association may allow you specific benefits in some places like hotels clubs gyms etc.This gives an added scope to interact with professionals from other industries ,further building your list of contacts.......Many things have changed in our world since the development of associations. The one tried and true that has not that associations exist to serve their members.whether the group exists to promote awareness or education about a health issue ,profession or industry, all associations follow co operative principles in order to be successful. At the end of the day ,we are all seeking strength in numbers.........